Eurasian Water-Milfoil
Eurasian watermilfoil is a perennial aquatic plant that grows under the water surface. Its leaves are feather-like with 12 or more thin segments (native milfoil has 11 or fewer leaf segments). Eurasian watermilfoil is most commonly found in water 1-3 m deep (~3-10 ft) in lakes, rivers, and ponds, but can occur at depths up to 10 m (~33 ft). Found in acidic or alkaline waters, this plant blooms small reddish flowers that rise above the water in red tangled stems in July and August. Eurasian watermilfoil grows in thick, dense mats that crowd out native species, reducing biodiversity, and deoxygenate water when decomposing, killing other aquatic species. It can also cause damage to boat motors, negatively impact fishing and swimming, and increase suitable mosquito habitat.
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Fact
Can milfoil destroy a lake?
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Nearly uncontrollable, it can attack virtually any lake. This weed infestation lowers property values and undermines enjoyment of the lake. Once introduced in a lake, this plant has the capacity to spread to virtually all areas with depths less than 20 feet.
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How long does milfoil live out of water?
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One Week!
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Milfoil can survive out of the water for up to one week as long as it is kept moist, which is a major problem because milfoil can travel on a boat from lake to lake.
