Aquatic Plants and Algae
Information on pond management and aquatic plants, including identification, chemical or biological control of aquatic plants and harmful algae blooms. Tips on invasive species, such as European water chestnut, pondweeds, filamentous algae.
-
NewsResponsible Recreation Helps Reduce the Spread of Aquatic Invasive Species
Date Posted 8/15/2025Non-native species pose a risk to the health of our waterways. -
VideosPreventing Excessive Aquatic Plant and Algae Growth
Length 3:24When plants and algae grow abundantly, pond and lake owners often think about ways to eliminate the offending plant. Nutrient control is the long term solution. -
ArticlesHarmful Algal Blooms: Safety, Testing, and Management Options
This article discusses what harmful algal blooms (HABs) are and summarizes quick identification tips, water testing, and bloom control methods. -
ArticlesNative Plant Selection for Backyard Aquatic Gardens
The installation of appropriate vegetation alongside consistent water quality and nutrient management are key to maintaining a sustainable aquatic garden. -
ArticlesPond Agencies and Permits in Pennsylvania
Information on the role of various agencies and permits that may be required for construction or maintenance of earthen ponds. -
ArticlesPond Measurements: Area, Volume and Residence Time
An explanation of basic pond measurements that are vital to pond management practices. -
ArticlesWinterkill in Ponds
In the winter, the water gets much colder, and ice may cover the top of the pond for an extended period. This can lead to what is called "winterkill." -
ArticlesDuckweed and Watermeal
Duckweed and watermeal are free-floating aquatic plants that are commonly encountered in Pennsylvania. They are usually found in nutrient-rich ponds with stagnant or little flow. -
ArticlesCoontail
Coontail is a common aquatic plant in Pennsylvania ponds and lakes. It has whorls of stiff leaves that get more compact toward the end of the stem. -
ArticlesUsing Grass Carp to Control Aquatic Plants
This information explains how to use grass carp for biological aquatic vegetation control. -
ArticlesChara and Nitella
Nitella and Chara look like rooted, aquatic plants, but both are actually a form of algae. -
ArticlesFocus on Aquatic Invasive Species – European Water Chestnut
The European Water chestnut has nothing to do with the edible variety. It is a rooted aquatic plant that can dominate ponds, shallow lakes, and rivers. -
ArticlesElodea (Common Waterweed)
Elodea is one of the few pond plants that can remain green all winter long. -
ArticlesCurly-Leaf Pondweed
One of more than 20 pondweed species (Potamogetons) that occur in Pennsylvania, this invasive plant from Europe frequently grows to nuisance levels in ponds. -
-
ArticlesFilamentous Algae
Different species of filamentous algae exist, but all have a similar growth habit. These algae begin growth in the winter and early spring on the pond bottom. -
ArticlesEurasian Water Milfoil
Eurasian Milfoil is an invasive, nonnative plant with long stems, often reaching the surface, with feather-like leaves in whorls of 4 or 5 around the stem. -
ArticlesPlanktonic Algae
Planktonic algae floats in the water column and can sometimes be confused with muddy water. It causes the water to look green, brown, or reddish in color. -
ArticlesAquatic/Wetland Noxious Weed List
The links below provide a listing of aquatic or wetland plants considered to be noxious weeds by the federal government or Pennsylvania. -
ArticlesStrategies for Preventing Algae and Aquatic Plant Problems in Farm Ponds
Over half of Pennsylvania pond owners have reported having issues with overabundant aquatic plants and algae. This article outlines several strategies for preventing nuisance algae and aquatic plant problems in farm ponds. -
ArticlesAlgae in Pennsylvania Ponds
This common aquatic plant is a part of many Pennsylvania pond ecosystems. -
ArticlesMid-Atlantic Pocket Guide to Water Garden Species
This information is intended to help select native aquatic plant alternatives and avoid invasive plant species. This guide is intended as a portable reference. -
ArticlesControlling Nuisance Aquatic Plants and Algae in Farm Ponds
Unwanted, overabundant aquatic plant and algae growth is one of the most common management issues pond owners face. -
NewsEuropean Water Chestnut Range Expands to 15 Pennsylvania Counties
Date Posted 6/3/2024This invasive aquatic plant was previously reported in only eleven northwestern and eastern Pennsylvania counties. -
ArticlesGuide for Completing the State Application for Aquatic Herbicide Use
Tips to help rural property owners complete DEP’s application for use of algaecides or herbicides in private ponds in Pennsylvania.
