Myriophyllum spicatum
Myriophyllum spicatum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Myriophyllum spicatum, commonly known as Eurasian watermilfoil, is a highly invasive aquatic plant found in freshwater ecosystems worldwide. This species is characterized by its feathery, whorled leaves and its ability to form dense underwater mats. These thick clusters can severely disrupt local habitats by altering water chemistry and blocking sunlight for native vegetation. Due to its rapid growth and aggressive spreading capabilities, it poses a significant threat to biodiversity and recreational water use. Managing its spread often requires careful intervention to mitigate its impact on aquatic life.
- Synonyms
- Myriophyllum Spicatum Var. Baicalense · Myriophyllum Spicatum Var. Majus · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Haloragaceae
- Distribution
- Africa
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Myriophyllum spicatum is a widely recognized aquatic plant known by several distinct common names across different regions. In English-speaking areas, it is frequently referred to as Eurasian Water Milfoil or Eurasian spiked water-milfoil. Its identity shifts linguistically as well, appearing as Aarvederkruid in certain contexts. In German, the species is commonly called Aehriges Tausendblatt, while it is known as Aks-tusindblad in Danish. These various names highlight the global presence and diverse nomenclature associated with this specific species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Myriophyllum spicatum is a complex aquatic species that is frequently associated with several taxonomic synonyms. It is often identified interchangeably with Myriophyllum pusillum in various botanical records. Furthermore, the plant encompasses several distinct varieties that fall under its classification. These include Myriophyllum spicatum var. baicalense, var. majus, and var. minus. The species also encompasses the specialized variety known as Myriophyllum spicatum var. tenellum.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Myriophyllum spicatum is a fascinating aquatic species belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological group, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. Its evolutionary lineage continues through the order Saxifragales, which links it to a diverse array of related plants. Further narrowing its biological identity, it is placed within the genus Myriophyllum. Finally, this plant finds its specific botanical home within the family Haloragaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Haloragaceae |
| Genus | Myriophyllum |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Myriophyllum spicatum exhibits a broad geographical presence across several diverse regions within the African continent. Its distribution extends through East Tropical Africa, with notable populations found in Tanzania. The species also thrives in the Northeast Tropical regions, specifically throughout Ethiopia, Eritrea, and the Sudan-South Sudan area. Beyond the mainland, this plant can be identified in the Macaronesia region, including the Canary Islands. These varied locations highlight the plant's ability to adapt to different aquatic environments across the African landscape.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Myriophyllum spicatum is a self-supporting herb that thrives in various aquatic environments. This plant exhibits significant versatility in its physical dimensions, ranging from a minimum height of 0.3 meters to a maximum of 25 meters. Interestingly, it frequently reaches a substantial size of 9.25 meters in optimal conditions. Its structural form allows it to remain upright and stable within its habitat. Through these varying growth patterns, the species demonstrates an impressive ability to adapt to its surroundings.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)