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Species
Information
- European water
chestnut
- Trapa
natans L.
- USDA
Symbol: TRNA
- Oregon
Noxious Weed Designation: A
- Pictures
ALERT: PLEASE CALL 1-866-INVADER IF YOU SUSPECT YOU HAVE FOUND THIS SPECIES
Identification: Annual aquatic plant. Upper floating leaves diamond-shaped with toothed edges, arranged on inflated, spongy stalks and occur in clusters up to 20 in across. Submersed leaves long and narrow or often replaced with green feather-like structures. Flowers small, solitary and white to light purple. Fruit a large swollen nut with 2-4 sharp spines.
This species is not yet known to occur in Oregon.
Impacts: This plant is a fierce competitor in shallow bodies of water possessing soft, muddy rooting substrates. In the Northeast it creates nearly impenetrable mats across wide areas of water creating barriers to boaters, swimmers and fisherman alike. Spiked nuts drift to shore where their sharp spines may hurt bare feet. Mono-cultures severely limit light penetration and water mixing, creating conditions of reduced oxygen levels which may increase the potential for fish kills. It is of little value to waterfowl.
Biological
Controls: Biological control agents are not used on "A" listed weeds in Oregon. If this weed is found in the state it will be managed for eradication or containment.
Oregon
Maps of European Water Chestnut Distribution
Links:
USDA
Plants Database information on European water chestnut
GRIN
Database information on European water chestnut
Oregon Department
of Agriculture information on European water chestnut
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