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Water Lettuce. Sam Wiernusz. Characteristics. Water lettuce ( Pistea stratiotes ) is a floating plant. It looks like an open head of lettuce suspended on the water. Its leaves are thick and its roots are feathery. Water Lettuce. Perennial Obligate species - PowerPoint PPT Presentation
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Water LettuceSam Wiernusz
Characteristics
Water lettuce (Pistea stratiotes) is a floating plant. It looks like an open head of lettuce suspended on the water. Its leaves are thick and its roots are feathery.
Water Lettuce
• Perennial• Obligate species• Lives in temperate
climates worldwide• Form dense mats that
stretch from shore to shore
The Problem
• Clogs waterways• Degrades water
quality• Greatly reduces
biodiversity
Water Lettuce
• Found globally, but its spread is limited by severe cold
• Leaves will regrow after moderate freezes
• Still sold through aquarium supply dealers because it is not labeled a noxious weed yet
Source of Introduction
It is debated among scientists as to whether or not it is native to the United States. There are records from 1765 of this plant being observed in Florida. Some experts believe, however, its origin is from Africa.
Control Measures
• Mechanical harvesters and choppers• Bio control insects• Aquatic herbicides
Questions?