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Duckweed (Lemna spp.) is a small light green, free-floating, seed bearing plant with has 1 to 3 leaves (fronds) that are 1/16” in length. A single root (or root-hair) protrudes from each shoe-shaped frond. Duckweed often forms layer on surface that may cover an entire pond in calm weather. Heavy infestations can shade sunlight required for oxygen synthesis and fish productivity.
Mechanical Options
Duckweed can be removed from the pond through booming, or netting the vegetation off of the surface.
Information on Mechanical Treatment of Aquatic Vegetation
Biological Options
Grass carp will consume duckweed, but are not effective at controlling it.
Information on Biological Treatment of Aquatic Vegetation
Chemical Options
The active ingredients that have been successful in treating duckweed include: Diquat (G), Flumioxazin (E) Fluridone (E) and Penoxsulam (E). E = excellent, G = good
Information on Chemical Treatment of Aquatic Vegetation
Return to the non-rooted floating vegetation page