Brazilian Elodea

Common Name: Brazilian elodea
Scientific Name: Egeria densa
Origin: South America

Description

Brazilian elodea is a submerged perennial that looks similar to american waterweed (Elodea canadensis), a common native aquatic plant. Brazilian elodea has finely-toothed leaves that are bright green, bushy, and are usually arranged in whorls of four around the stem. The plant has round stems that can grow in water up to 20 ft. deep and often branches near the surface. It reproduces via plant fragmentation.

Habitat

Brazilian elodea grows in lakes, rivers and springs, and is found in both still and flowing waters. It is commonly sold as an aquarium plant.

Threat

This plant forms dense monotypic stands that can cover hundreds of acres and can persist until the fall. Mats can displace native vegetation, restrict water movement and interfere with recreational uses.

Management

Control of this plant is very difficult and costly. Studies show that brazilian elodea can outcompete eurasian watermilfoil, which is already a widespread invasive species in western New York. Prevention is the most effective control.

Regional Distribution

Early Detection

WNY PRISM Priority

Tier 2 – Eradication

Invasive Species Priorities – Tier Chart

Brazilian elodea 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

Southern naiad (Najas guadalupensis)

American elodea/waterweed (Elodea sp.) (E. canadensis, E. nuttallii)

Coontail (Ceratophyllm demersum)

 

This map shows confirmed observations (green points) submitted to the NYS Invasive Species Database. Absence of data does not necessarily mean absence of the species at that site, but that it has not been reported there. For more information, please visit iMapInvasives.