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Sold for use in aquariums often under the name 'Anacharis'
- Introduced from South America
Brazilian elodea
(Egeria densa)
Quick Identification
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Green leaves are whorled with four leaves per node
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Appear densely foliated
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Small, white, three-petaled flowers
Impact
Brazilian elodea spreads quickly. It creates dense mats on the surface which can impede boating, fishing, swimming and other aquatic activities. It creates poor fish habitat and can cause fish population imbalances. The fragments can block intake pipes. It would be very expensive and difficult to control if it established here.
Management
Never dump your aquarium into water. Dump it on dry land away from water or compost the plants. Always remove plant fragments from your boat and gear. Report any possible infestations.
Flower
The flowers have three white petals and three green sepals. The flowers emerge above the water on long stalks that grow from the leaf axils.
Leaves & Stems
Bright green leave grow in groups of 4 to 6 per node. They are approximately 25 mm long and and 5 mm wide with a linear oblong shape. A double set of whorled leave occur where the stem branches.
Roots
Roots are white and branching.
Reproduction & Dispersal
Reproduced primarily from plant fragments.
Seeds
Female plants do produce viable seed but invasive populations appear to contain only male plants.
Preferred Habitat
Used in aquariums. Thrives in fresh water lakes, wetlands, and slow moving steams.
Interesting Facts
It can can cost millions of dollars and take as much as ten years to get rid of an established population.
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