How did the Eurasian milfoil cause damage as an invasive species?

Deceptively delicate and fragile in appearance, the Eurasian watermilfoil forms thick mats in shallow areas of a lake, quickly growing and spreading to block sunlight, killing off native aquatic plants that fish and other underwater species rely on for food and shelter.

How did Eurasian milfoil get into the Great Lakes?

Where did Eurasian watermilfoil come from? Eurasian watermilfoil was introduced to the United States in the 1940s as a decoration in aquariums. It may have been dumped into a lake or pond which started the spread. It is native to Europe, Asia and North Africa.

How does Eurasian watermilfoil affect the Great Lakes?

The lake ecosystem suffers because Eurasian watermilfoil displaces and reduces native aquatic plant diversity, which is needed for a healthy fishery. Infestations can also impair water quality due to dissolved oxygen depletion as thick stands die and decay.

Why is Eurasian milfoil bad?

The plant not only destroys ecosystems but also inhibits recreational water activities, as the dense mats of milfoil make boating or swimming impossible. Furthermore, these large clusters of plant matter are the perfect breeding grounds for mosquitoes, more bad news for those who visit lakes.

Where can Eurasian milfoil be found in Canada?

Eurasian milfoil is an invasive weed found in six provinces across Canada: British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island. While the plant usually grows in shallow waters, it can take root in up to 10 metres of water.

How does Eurasian milfoil affect the water quality?

This reduces biodiversity and water quality. The plant grows quickly and forms a thick mass of tangled stems underwater and mats of vegetation on the surface of water bodies. Dense mats of Eurasian milfoil on the water’s surface block light from penetrating the water, which shades out native aquatic vegetation.

What kind of habitat does Eurasian watermilfoil live in?

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.

Are there invasive species in the Great Lakes?

Cylindro is one of many species of blue-green algae and is considered invasive and harmful. The blooms are just below the water surface of fresh water habitats and may appear as foggy green/yellow water. Cylindro has been documented in many inland lakes and reservoirs around the Great Lakes region. Didymo (Rock Snot) (Didymosphenia geminata)