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Photo by Kristian Peters
Curly-leaf Pondweed
COMMON NAME:
Curly-leaf pondweedSCIENTIFIC NAME:
Potamogeton crispusORIGIN:
Europe, Africa, and AustraliaDESCRIPTION:
Curly-leaf pondweed is a submerged perennial that resembles many native pondweeds. Care must be taken to correctly identify this species. Rigid, reddish-green, oblong leaves have distinct, finely-toothed, wavy edges. The plant's flat, reddish-brown stem grows from 1-16 ft. Most reproduction is from winter buds, called turions.HABITAT:
Curly-leaf pondweed is tolerant of low light and low water temperatures, and invades shallow and deep waters.THREAT:
New plants form under ice cover during late winter, making curly-leaf pondweed one of the first plants to emerge in early summer. Plant die-offs in mid-summer may cause a critical loss of oxygen.MANAGEMENT:
Control methods for curly-leaf pondweed have included physical, mechanical or chemical techniques. There are many native look-alike pondweeds. Please confirm identification before beginning any management program.
WNY PRISM PRIORITY:
Tier 4 - Local Control
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
Curly-leaf pondweed 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
Clasping-leaved pondweed (Potamogeton perfoliatus)
Ivy-leaf duckweed (Lemna trisulca)
Large-leaf pondweed (Potamogeton amplifolius)
NYS Prohibited and Regulated Species - Part 575:
PATHWAYS OF INVASION:
REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION:
Widespread