09-29-2007, 03:10 AM
Brazilian elodea, an invasive aquatic plant new to Minnesota waters, was discovered in Powderhorn Lake in south Minneapolis, according to Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) biologists. Thanks to the sharp eye of Rachael Crabb, a limnologist with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, the Brazilian elodea was spotted during a survey of aquatic vegetation in the lake. The plant is native to South America, and also known as Brazilian waterweed, giant elodea, or Egeria densa.
Brazilian elodea
Brazilian elodea can cause problems similar to those caused by Eurasian watermilfoil and other invasive aquatic plants. These problems result when the invasive plant produces mats at the water's surface and interfere with activities such as boating and swimming, as well as displacement of native plants. To date, Brazilian elodea has become abundant in other states or areas where climates are milder than Minnesota's. It is important to limit the spread of the plant in Minnesota to prevent the development of potential problems.
Although it is not known how the plant reached the lake, it is suspected someone may have dumped the contents of an aquarium, including the Brazilian elodea, into the lake. Brazilian elodea is widely sold in the aquarium trade. Goldfish, which also are widely sold in the aquarium trade and are not native to Minnesota, previously have been seen in Powderhorn Lake. This observation suggests that past aquarium releases have occurred there.
The DNR reminds people with aquaria and water gardens that it is illegal to release or dump unwanted plants or animals into lakes or streams. Instead, the DNR recommends people pursue one of two options. The first is to find another aquarium owner, pond owner, or water gardener who will take unwanted plants and animals. The second is to dispose of the contents of the aquarium safely.
Brazilian Elodea Root Structure<br />
In the case of aquatic plants, seal them in plastic bags and dispose in the trash. In the case of animals, contact a veterinarian or pet retailer for guidance on humane disposal of them.
The DNR and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board plan to apply herbicide to the Brazilian elodea in Powderhorn Lake in an attempt to eliminate the plant from the lake.
For more information about options for disposal of aquarium plants and pets, visit: mndnr.gov
Brazilian elodea
Brazilian elodea can cause problems similar to those caused by Eurasian watermilfoil and other invasive aquatic plants. These problems result when the invasive plant produces mats at the water's surface and interfere with activities such as boating and swimming, as well as displacement of native plants. To date, Brazilian elodea has become abundant in other states or areas where climates are milder than Minnesota's. It is important to limit the spread of the plant in Minnesota to prevent the development of potential problems.
Although it is not known how the plant reached the lake, it is suspected someone may have dumped the contents of an aquarium, including the Brazilian elodea, into the lake. Brazilian elodea is widely sold in the aquarium trade. Goldfish, which also are widely sold in the aquarium trade and are not native to Minnesota, previously have been seen in Powderhorn Lake. This observation suggests that past aquarium releases have occurred there.
The DNR reminds people with aquaria and water gardens that it is illegal to release or dump unwanted plants or animals into lakes or streams. Instead, the DNR recommends people pursue one of two options. The first is to find another aquarium owner, pond owner, or water gardener who will take unwanted plants and animals. The second is to dispose of the contents of the aquarium safely.
Brazilian Elodea Root Structure<br />
In the case of aquatic plants, seal them in plastic bags and dispose in the trash. In the case of animals, contact a veterinarian or pet retailer for guidance on humane disposal of them.
The DNR and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board plan to apply herbicide to the Brazilian elodea in Powderhorn Lake in an attempt to eliminate the plant from the lake.
For more information about options for disposal of aquarium plants and pets, visit: mndnr.gov