Contents
Description
Hydrilla Verticillata is a submerged aquatic plant that can be found in freshwater habitats such as lakes, ponds, and rivers. It is native to Asia, Africa, and Australia, but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America. It is also known as water thyme, Indian star-vine, and waterweed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Charophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Hydrocharitales |
| Family | Hydrocharitaceae |
| Genus | Hydrilla |
Appearance
Hydrilla Verticillata has long, slender stems that can grow up to 25 feet in length. The leaves are arranged in whorls of 3-8 and are finely serrated. The plant also has small, white flowers that bloom above the water’s surface. The roots are thin and hair-like, and can grow up to 12 inches in length.
Care Guide
Hydrilla Verticillata requires the following care:
- Water: This plant is a fully submerged aquatic plant and requires a constant supply of water to survive.
- Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary for this plant as it absorbs nutrients directly from the water.
- Soil: This plant does not require soil as it is fully submerged in water.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sunlight, but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant can survive in a wide range of hardiness zones, from 4-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hydrilla Verticillata can be affected by a variety of pests and diseases, including:
- Snails and other grazing animals can damage the leaves and stems of the plant.
- Fungal infections can cause the leaves to turn brown and die.
- Algae blooms can coat the leaves and prevent the plant from photosynthesizing.
Habitat
Hydrilla Verticillata can be found in a variety of freshwater habitats, including:
- Lakes
- Ponds
- Rivers
It can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, including high temperatures, low oxygen levels, and high levels of pollutants.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hydrilla Verticillata an invasive species?
A: Yes, it is considered an invasive species in many parts of the world, including North America.
Q: Can Hydrilla Verticillata be used in aquariums?
A: Yes, it can be used in aquariums as it provides a good source of oxygen and can help control algae growth.
Q: Can Hydrilla Verticillata be used for phytoremediation?
A: Yes, it has been used for phytoremediation as it can absorb pollutants from the water.
Q: Is Hydrilla Verticillata toxic to humans or animals?
A: No, it is not toxic to humans or animals.
Related Plants
- Elodea Canadensis
- Vallisneria Americana
- Ceratophyllum Demersum
References
- “Hydrilla verticillata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 March 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287186&isprofile=0.
- “Hydrilla verticillata.” USDA. Accessed 15 March 2021. https://www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov/aquatics/hydrilla-verticillata.
- “Hydrilla verticillata.” The Nature Conservancy. Accessed 15 March 2021. https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/your-local-habitats/aquatic-invasive-species/hydrilla-verticillata/.
