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There are many different varieties of submerged pondweeds (Sago Pondweed (Stuckenia pectinata), Baby Pondweed (Potamogeton pusillus) and Curly-leaf Pondweed (Potamogeton crispus), among others). All are characterized by having very thin (filament like) leaves that can grow very long but come to a tapering point, with thin stems that are long and highly branching. Curly-leaf pondweed has 2 leaf forms; subsurface leaves that are strap-like with straight margins and surface leaves that are slightly broader with wavy margins. The stems often have a zig-zag appearance and can be branching. Most of the other submerged pondweeds have no floating leaves, their stems are long and thin with filament like leaves, tapering to a point. All varieties have a nut-like fruit 1/8 to 1/4 inches long.
Mechanical Options
Submerged pondweeds can be controlled through cutting and raking, dyes or fertilizers or barriers.
Information on Mechanical Treatment of Aquatic Vegetation
Biological Options
Grass carp will consume submerged pondweeds and are good at controlling it.
Information on Biological Treatment of Aquatic Vegetation
Chemical Options
The active ingredients that have been successful in treating submerged pondweeds include: Bispyribac Sodium (G), Diquat (G), Endothall (E), Flumioxazin (G), Fluridone (E), Imazamox (G), Penoxsulam (F) and Copper Based + Diquat (G). E = excellent, G = good, F = fair
Information on Chemical Treatment of Aquatic Vegetation
Return to the submerged vegetation page