Beneficial native aquatic plants provide nutrients, preserve habitat and protect waterways. Food is provided for fish and other wildlife by these plants through vegetation as well as the insects and other organisms that thrive in a balanced ecosystem. Habitat is provided, giving shelter and protection from predators and spawning grounds. Harmful substances within the system are filtered through the normal activity and growth of the plants.

On the Other: Noxious Plants Pose a Threat

Noxious invasive aquatic plants interfere with the ecosystem's health, choke out beneficial plants, block sunlight, deplete nutrients and may spread to other waterways if uncontrolled. These weeds are destructive to the system, robbing other plants of nutrition sources. They are not usually beneficial as a food source and habitats are damaged as other organisms in the pond are unable to survive near these poisonous plants.

Bottom Line

Talk to knowledgeable staff at a local nursery for recommendations about selecting plants native to your area. When managed effectively to prevent overgrowth and disease, beneficial native plants add beauty, vitality and balance to any waterway.

Source:

Gettys LA, WT Haller and M Bellaud, eds. 2009. Biology and control of aquatic plants: a best

North American Invasive Aquatic Plants

Keystone Hatcheries