Eurasian Watermilfoil

Eurasian Watermilfoil

Myriophyllum spicatum

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Description

Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) is a submerged, perennial, aquatic plant; green feather-like leaves and stem brownish-red to light green; flowers between late July and August with pink petals learn more here. Northern milfoil (Myriophyllum sibiricum) (NOT an invasive species) also occurs in Nebraska learn more about identification here. Eurasian Watermiloil hybrid (Myriophyllum spicatum × Myriophyllum sibiricum) has been confirmed in Nebraska learn more about its identification here and biology here.  
Eurasian Watermilfoil characteristics.Northern Watermilfoil characteristics.

Habitat

Freshwater lakes, ponds, and slow moving areas of rivers and streams. Can tolerate brackish waters.

Location in Nebraska

Eurasian watermilfoil was First collected in Hall and Lancaster counties in 1980.  Eurasian watermilfoil and hybrid watermilfoil were confirmed in 15 Nebraska waterbodies by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission in 2021 contact ngpc.AIS@nebraska.gov with questions.

Pathway of Introduction and Spread

Introduced through the dumping of aquarium contents. Motorboat traffic contributes to natural fragmentation and the distribution of fragments throughout lakes. Can also spread via attaching to boats, trailers and other aquatic equipment.

Impacts

Competes aggressively to displace and reduce the diversity of native aquatic plants. Spring growth begins earlier than other plants and quickly grows to the surface, forming dense canopies that overtop and shade the surrounding plants. Dense beds restrict swimming, fishing, boating and clog water intake pipes of industries and irrigators.

Control Options

Photo Credits: 

Richard R. Old, XIDServices
Allison Fox, University of Florida, USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database