Common Aquatic Plants

We manage aquatic vegetation on our reservoirs to protect the ecology of the river and to comply with Federal license requirements. You can help us identify and report the following common aquatic plants that may pose problems.

Hydrilla

Hydrilla

This fast-growing non-native submerged plant aggressively outcompetes aquatic plants native to Alabama and can overtake a lake, making it unusable for recreation.

Water hyacinth and water lettuce

Water Hyacinth and Water Lettuce

These are non-native floating plants with extremely high growth and reproductive rates. They form mats that reduce water quality, make navigation more difficult and increase mosquito reproduction.

Lyngbya

Lyngbya

An alga common in the South, Lyngbya forms foul-smelling mats that can produce a toxin causing fish kills and skin irritations.

Eurasian watermilfoil

Eurasian Watermilfoil

This fast-growing non-native submerged plant can quickly overtake a lake and outcompete native vegetation.

Alligator weed

Alligator Weed

This non-native emergent plant grows in dense mats ideal for mosquito production. It has a white flower and leaves that grow on opposite sides of the stem.

Water Primrose

This native emergent plant can cause mosquito and access issues. It has a yellow flower and leaves that grow on alternate sides of the stem.

Water willow

Water Willow

This native emergent plant provides excellent habitat for aquatic organisms. It has a violet flower and leaves that grow on opposite sides of the stem. Although this is a highly desirable plant, it will be considered for control if it meets the above criteria.

Zebra Mussel

Zebra Mussel

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Managing Aquatic Plants

Promoting our native aquatic plants and protecting their habitats.