Nuisance Aquatic Plant Highlight: Watermeal

Written by Industry Expert Amanda Mahaney, Aquatic Biologist

“What is that green scum on the surface of my pond?”

Is this a question you have asked yourself before? If so, further investigations are in order. It may not be “green scum” or pond algae after all, but rather a tiny plant called watermeal, with no roots, stems or “true” leaves. By simply rubbing this tiny, pale green plant between your fingers, it will most likely resemble cornmeal.

Watermeal prefers slow-moving or stagnant, nutrient-rich waterbodies and is frequently found among its closest relative, duckweed (Lemna spp.). Although it is commonly used as a food source and camouflage cover for wildlife, it can easily develop dense mats when proper conditions allow for it. Sunlight penetration necessary for aquatic vegetation growth and oxygen concentrations essential for the health of underwater wildlife can all be negatively affected by concentrated growth of watermeal and duckweed.

There are multiple management techniques suggested to control problematic levels of watermeal. These techniques include physical controls through the use of skimming nets, habitat modifications by means of outflow structures, nutrient remediation and herbicide applications. The implementation and success of these techniques depends on the size and flow of the affected waterbody. Your aquatic management professional will help determine the best possible approach to managing your lake or pond’s watermeal concerns.

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Amanda Mahaney is an aquatic biologist who helps clients develop environmentally sustainable goals for their aquatic ecosystems. She has special interests in GIS data collection and map preparation, and enjoys educating the public about the importance of land preservation. Amanda also has a strong passion for vegetation identification and invasive species management with hopes to do her part in eradicating non-native invasive plant species from New England waterbodies.

SOLitude Lake Management is committed to providing full service lake and pond management solutions that improve water quality, preserve natural resources, and reduce our environmental footprint. Our services include lake, pond and fisheries management programs, algae and aquatic weed control, mechanical harvesting, hydro-raking, installation and maintenance of fountains and aeration systems, water quality testing and restoration, bathymetry, lake vegetation studies, biological assessments, habitat assessments, invasive species management and nuisance wildlife management. Services, consulting and aquatic products are available to clients nationwide, including homeowners associations, multi-family and apartment communities, golf courses, commercial developments, ranches, private landowners, reservoirs, recreational and public lakes, municipalities, parks, and state and federal agencies. Learn more about SOLitude Lake Management and purchase products at www.solitudelakemanagement.com.