IDENTIFICATION, BIOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT OF ELODEA-CANADENSIS, HYDROCHARITACEAE

Elodea, Egeria, Hydrilla, and Lagarosiphon have been much confused in the literature, mainly because of similarities in appearance and habit at. As well there has been confusion as to the number of species in El odea and their correct names. We provide two keys, the first to help d istinguish the genus Elodea from its near relatives, and the second to distinguish the species within Elodea. The distribution of the specie s of Elodea is described along with their physiology, survival and dis persal. The economic importance and management of the weed species of Elodea are discussed and recommendations for control are made.