Negative Impacts of Invasive Species
Just like terrestrial invasives, invasive aquatics are non-native species that significantly, negatively impact the existing environment. Some potential characteristics of aquatic invasives are listed below.
- Out-compete native species by leafing out earlier in spring, keeping leaves longer in fall, or staying green through winter
- Spread quickly (usually by rhizomes and fragmentations) and overwhelm native ecosystems before they have the means to recuperate
- Clog pathways between water bodies and drainage points
- Limit mobility by catching on rudders
- Form dense mats that block sunlight, deoxygenate water, and cause fish kills
- Create breeding ground for bacteria, mosquitos, and decomposers
Invasive Aquatics Found in Maine
Eurasian Watermilfoil, Myriophyllum spicatum
Hydrilla, Hydrilla verticillata
|
Curly-leaf Pondweed, Potamogeton crispus
Fanwort/Cabomba, Cabomba caroliniana
|
Bladderwort, Utricularia spp.
Brazilian Waterweed, Egeria densa
|
Managing Invasive Species
Managing invasive aquatic species is just as arduous as managing terrestrial ones, with the added complication of working in a waterbody.
The best way to manage invasive aquatics is to prevent their arrival in the first place. Preventative measures include:
However, if you already have an infestation, or are at risk of one, connect with statewide organizations like Lake Stewards of Maine or Maine Department of Environmental Protection. These groups offer trainings, resources, and potential opportunities for aquatic invasive management.
Common techniques implemented by DEP include:
The best way to manage invasive aquatics is to prevent their arrival in the first place. Preventative measures include:
- Properly cleaning and treating any water craft you intend to use in multiple waterbodies before and after use
- Properly cleaning and treating any in-water equipment (waders, fishing line, nets, ropes, anchors, etc.) before and after use in multiple waterbodies
- Never dump live bait in a waterbody and never dump unused worms on land or in water
However, if you already have an infestation, or are at risk of one, connect with statewide organizations like Lake Stewards of Maine or Maine Department of Environmental Protection. These groups offer trainings, resources, and potential opportunities for aquatic invasive management.
Common techniques implemented by DEP include:
- Sending dive teams to hand-pull individual invasive plants
- Mechanically removing dense mats of invasives
- Suppressing plant growth with semi-permanent mats on lake bottoms to block sunlight
Do you suspect you have an invasive species in your local waterbody? Report your finding to Maine DEP!