Eurasian watermilfoil(Myriophyllum spicatum) is a submerged perennial that looks like many native aquatic plants, including native milfoil species. Eurasian watermilfoil usually has four feathery leaves whorled around the stem. Each leaf is finely divided, has greater than nine leaflets, and leaf tips are flat. The plant can reach lengths of 20 feet and branches near the surface. Tiny pink flowers may occur on an emergent spike during late summer.
Distribution:
NOTE: If you receive a "sign in" message, click cancel to continue. Confirmed observations of Eurasian watermilfoil submitted to the NYS Invasive Species Database. For more information, visit iMapInvasives
Habitat:
This plant grows in a variety of depths, sediment types, and flowing conditions.
Threats & Impacts:
Plant fragments, which break off easily, can be transported from lake to lake on boat trailers or fishing gear. These fragments can start new populations, which form dense mats that degrade habitat and reduce recreational access.
Management Techniques:
Once milfoil becomes well-established within a waterway, it is very difficult to remove. There are a variety of control methods used to manage milfoil infestations including physical, mechanical, biological, and chemical techniques.
