Report an Invasive Species
wnyprism@buffalostate.edu
(716) 878.4708
X
CONTACT US
Great Lakes Center, SAMC 319
SUNY Buffalo State
1300 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo, NY 14222
wnyprism@buffalostate.edu
(716) 878.4708
SUBSCRIBE TO LISTSERV
FOLLOW US
CONTACT
Eurasian watermilfoil. Photo by Alison Fox, University of Florida, Bugwood.org
Eurasian Watermilfoil
COMMON NAME:
Eurasian WatermilfoilSCIENTIFIC NAME:
Myriophyllum spicatumORIGIN:
Europe and AsiaDESCRIPTION:
Eurasian watermilfoil is a submerged perennial that looks like many native aquatic plants, including native milfoil species. Eurasian watermilfoil usually has four feathery leaves whorled around the stem. Each leaf is finely divided, has more than 9 leaflets, and a flat leaf tip. The plant can reach lengths of 20 ft. and branches near the water's surface. Tiny pink flowers may occur on an emergent spike late in the summer.HABITAT:
This plant grows in a variety of depths, sediment types and flowing conditions.THREAT:
Plant fragments, which break off easily, can be transported from lake to lake on boat trailers or fishing gear. These fragments can start new populations, which form dense mats that degrade habitat and reduce recreational access.MANAGEMENT:
Once watermilfoil becomes well-established within a waterway, it is very difficult to remove. A variety of control methods used nationwide to manage watermilfoil infestations include physical, mechanical, biological and chemical techniques. Prevention is the most effective control.
WNY PRISM PRIORITY:
Tier 4 - Local Control
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
Eurasian watermilfoil is a prohibited species in New York State - for more information on Prohibited and Regulated Species, visit http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/99141.html.
Native Alternatives
Northern watermilfoil (Myriophyllum sibiricum)
Coontail (Ceratophyllum demersum)
Slender/bushy naiad (Najas flexilis)
NYS Prohibited and Regulated Species - Part 575:
PATHWAYS OF INVASION:
REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION:
Widespread