An Official Website of the Commonwealth of Kentucky
Branched algae (Chara spp.) are multicellular algae that are often confused with submerged flowering plants. However, branched algae have no flower, will not extend above the water surface and often have a grainy or crunchy texture.
The most commonly encountered branched algae in Kentucky is Chara and is often called muskgrass because of its musky, garlicky odor. Chara has thin, rough leaves or “bracts” whorled around the stem with 6 to 16 bracts around each node. These bracts can be barely noticeable in some species or be nearly a centimeter long and appearing like secondary branchlets in others.
Mechanical Options
Chara can be raked from the pond, or caught up in a seine or net, but this is a difficult procedure because chara reproduces through fragmentation. Dyes or physical barriers which shade out the pond can be used with moderate success.
Information on Mechanical Treatment of Aquatic Vegetation
Biological Options
Grass carp will consume Chara. Please see the section on this website about grass carp and their use in controlling Aquatic Vegetation for more information.
Information on Biological Treatment of Aquatic Vegetation
Chemical Options
The active ingredients that have been successful in treating Chara include: copper based compounds (E), and alkylamine salts of endothall (G). E = excellent, G = good
Information on Chemical Treatment of Aquatic Vegetation
Return to main Algae page