Aquatic Vegetation Management
Aquatic plants are an essential part of the pond ecosystem. They provide shelter and food for all fish species, and promote fast growth and balanced fish populations. However, aquatic plants can also cause problems in ponds. The main problem is when too many plants choke out a pond and make it difficult to use (e.g. fish, swim) and even difficult for fish to swim and feed. Other plant problems include too few plants (e.g. no fish habitat) and the introduction of invasive plant species. This section will cover:
- The benefits of aquatic vegetation
- The problems of excessive aquatic vegetation
- Aquatic plant identification
- Aquatic plant management methods
- Specific control strategies
For a comprehensive guide on aquatic plant management, including species identification and treatment options, please refer to Purdue Extension Publication APM-3-W. 
For more specific information on how to control floating duckweed and watermeal, please refer to Purdue Extension Publication APM-2-W. 
For more specific information on harmful algal blooms (HABs), including what they are, when they occur and how to control them, please refer to the Aquatic Control and Purdue Extension publication.