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Invasive Species: Eurasian Watermilfoil

Invasive Species: Eurasian Watermilfoil

Eurasian Watermilfoil

(Myriophyllum spicatum)
*Established in Michigan*

RESTRICTED IN MICHIGAN

Report this species:

Use the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN) online reporting tool

- Or - download the MISIN smartphone app and report from your phone - MISIN.MSU.edu/tools/apps/#home

 

Identification:

  • Emergent, herbaceous aquatic plant.
  • Stems are whitish-pink to reddish-brown.
  • Leaves are greyish-green with finely divided pairs of leaflets that are ½-2 inches long, giving the plant a feathery appearance.
  • Leaves arranged in whorls of 3-6.
  • Yellow or reddish flower with 4 parts on a projected spike sitting 2-4 inches above water.
  • Usually 3-10 feet tall with a maximum of 33 feet.

eurasian watermilfoil
Photo courtesy of Allison Fox, University of Florida, Bugwood.org.

eurasian watermilfoil
Photo courtesy of Graves Lovell, Alabama DCNR, Bugwood.org.

Habitat: Eurasian watermilfoil inhabits water bodies ranging from fresh to brackish. Areas that have been disturbed are prime habitats for this species. Eurasian watermilfoil is very resistant and can overwinter in frozen lakes and ponds in the northern U.S. or survive over-heated bays in southern states.

Native Range: Europe, Asia and North Africa.

U.S. Distribution: Eurasian watermilfoil has been introduced to 45 states. Hawaii, Kansas, Wyoming, Idaho and Nevada have not reported introduction.

Local Concern: Eurasian watermilfoil forms large mats of floating vegetation that will shade-out native aquatic plants and impede recreational activities. This species is not a valuable food source of waterfowl and may interfere with fish predation. Thick vegetation like this can also clog residential or industrial water intakes.

MORE INFORMATION:

Eurasian Watermilfoil Invasive Species Alert - Printable PDF

Status and Strategy for Eurasian Watermilfoil Management This document provides in-depth information about Eurasian watermilfoil in Michigan including identification, distribution, management and control options.

MDARD Weed Risk Assessment for Eurasian Watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) - This document evaluates the invasive potential of the plant species using information based on establishment, spread and potential to cause harm.