Aquatic Invasive Species

Eurasian Water Milfoil is an invasive aquatic plant in Wisconsin, characterized by limp, reddish stems and leaves, especially near the tips. It can form dense mats in shallow water, hindering recreational activities and potentially posing drowning hazards. Native milfoils typically have stiffer stems and leaves that are not reddish, according to the Wisconsin DNR.

Here's a more detailed look:

Appearance: Eurasian water milfoil has a submerged, rooted plant with green leaves and white to reddish stems, particularly near the tips.

Habitat: It thrives in shallow water, often forming dense mats that can impede swimming, boating, and fishing.

Impact: These mats can make it difficult to navigate the water and may even pose a drowning risk by tangling swimmers.

Curly-leaf Pondweed (Potamogeton Crispus) is an invasive aquatic plant found in Wisconsin lakes and ponds. It's characterized by its distinctive, oblong, wavy leaves with serrated edges, often described as "lasagna noodle-like". The leaves are typically light to dark green and have a reddish midvein. It is known for its early growth in the spring and the production of turions (hard, cone-shaped buds) that allow it to overwinter in the sediment.

Key Characteristics:

Leaves: Oblong, wavy, serrated edges, reddish midvein.

Growth: Thrives in cooler temperatures and shallow, soft-bottomed areas.

Reproduction: Reproduces via turions, which are vegetative propagules that overwinter in the sediment.

Habitat: Found in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams, often in brackish, alkaline, or eutrophic (nutrient-rich) conditions.