Download Common Native and Exotic Aquatic Plants Of Indiana Waters

Common Native and Exotic Aquatic Plants
Of Indiana Waters
Quick Reference Plant Identification Guide
for Volunteer Aquatic Weed Watchers
Indiana Clean Lakes Program
Indiana University
Indiana Department of Environmental Management
Terms Used in this Key
Emergent Plants – These plants have all or most of the vegetative structure, including
reproductive and flowering parts, above the water’s surface. The root system can be under water
but will survive during periods of low water level. Emergent plants are found along shorelines
and in shallow waters and include grasses, sedges, rushes, bushes, and other wetland type plants.
Floating-leaved Plants – All or most of the plant is floating on the water’s surface. Some plants
have floating leaves and root systems that are in the sediment. Some plants are entirely free
floating with the root system floating as well.
Submerged Plants – These plants have most of the vegetative structure under the water’s
surface. Some have flowering stalks that protrude from the water surface. These plants will
grow as deep as light penetrates the water to the lake bottom.
Aquatic Plant Zones
Asterisk Symbol (*) Next to Plant Name Denotes
Exotic/Invasive Species
Prepared by:
Indiana Clean Lakes Program
Modified from:
New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services
Water Division by Amy P. Smagula, Clean Lakes & Exotic Species Coordinator
Developed 1999, Updated 2000, 2001
1
Denotes illustration provided and copyrighted by IFAS, Center for Aquatic Plants University of Florida,
Gainesville (used with permission)
2
Denotes illustrations provided by Patty Warren
3
Denotes illustrations provided by Stephanie Bowser, NHDES
4
Denotes illustrations provided by Lisa Dame
5
Denotes illustrations provided by Brandy Penna