Najas marina
USDA, NRCS. 2018. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov, 28 March 2018). National Plant Data Team, Greensboro, NC 27401-4901 USA.
Illustration courtesy of University of Florida/IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants. Used with permission.
What is Brittle Naiad (Marine Naiad)?
Physical Characteristics
Leaves:
- Brittle
- Linear
- Stiff
- 1.8 inches long & 0.13 inches wide
- Toothed edges
Stems:
- Branching
- Brownish color
Where Does it Grow?
Brittle naiad, marine naiad, or spiny naiad can be found in fresh or brackish waters; mostly lakes and ponds.
Pros and Cons of Brittle Naiad
Brittle naiad is readily consumed by ducks. Submerged portions of all aquatic plants provide habitats for many micro and macro invertebrates. These invertebrates in turn are used as food by fish and other wildlife species (e.g. amphibians, reptiles, ducks, etc.). After aquatic plants die, their decomposition by bacteria and fungi provides food (called “detritus”) for many aquatic invertebrates.