Native vs. Invasive Plants of Bolton Lakes
Introduction
Aquatic plants are a natural and important part of the Bolton lakes ecosystem. Many species are native and help maintain water quality, provide habitat for fish and wildlife, and support a healthy lake environment.
However, some plants are invasive species - non-native plants that spread rapidly and can outcompete native vegetation, disrupt ecosystems, and interfere with recreation (boating, fishing, etc.).
Early detection and accurate identification are critical to protecting the long-term health of Lower, Middle, and Upper Bolton Lakes.
However, some plants are invasive species - non-native plants that spread rapidly and can outcompete native vegetation, disrupt ecosystems, and interfere with recreation (boating, fishing, etc.).
Early detection and accurate identification are critical to protecting the long-term health of Lower, Middle, and Upper Bolton Lakes.
Native Plants
Native plants:
Examples of native species found in Bolton Lakes include:
- Occur naturally in Connecticut lakes
- Support fish, birds, and aquatic life
- Help stabilize sediments and improve water quality
Examples of native species found in Bolton Lakes include:
|
Watershield
(Brasenia schreberi) |
Cattails
(Typha species) |
Water lilies
|
Invasive Plants
Invasive plants:
They often "win" against native plants because they grow faster and thrive in many conditions.
- Are not native to the ecosystem
- Spread quickly and aggressively
- Crowd out native vegetation
- Can make boating and swimming difficult
They often "win" against native plants because they grow faster and thrive in many conditions.
Known Invasive Plants of Bolton Lakes
The following invasive species have been reported in or near Bolton Lakes since the inception of FBL:
High Priority/Current Concerns
High Priority/Current Concerns
|
Fanwort
(Cabomba caroliniana) |
Hydrilla
(Hydrilla verticillata) |
Variable-leaf Watermilfoil
(Myriophyllum heterophyllum) |
Phragmites
|
Additional Invasive or Non-Native Species Reported
|
Minor naiad
(Najas minor) |
Curly-leaf pondweed
|
Water chestnut
|
Yellow iris
(Iris pseudacorus) |
Plants That Can Be Confused with Invasives
Some non-invasive or less harmful species may resemble invasive plants. For example:
- Mudmat (Glossostigma cleistanthum) - non-native but generally not considered invasive in CT
- Pondweeds and bladderworts - common native aquatic plants
|
Mudmat
(Glossostigma cleistanthum) |
Pondweeds
|
Bladderworts
|
How You Can Help
Lake residents and visitors play a critical role in monitoring plant conditions.
If you see a plant you don't recognize:
If you see a plant you don't recognize:
- Take clear photos
- Note the location and conditions
- Submit a report through the Identify & Report Suspicious Plants or Algae page