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Parrot's Feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum)

 

Species

Distribution

parrots_feather
Parrot's feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum)

Photo courtesy of GB Non Native Species Secretariat

parrots_feather_distribution

To view NBN location data click here 

Impacts

Pathways

  • Out competes native macrophytes, reducing species diversity.
  • Clogs waterways leading to problems for drainage and access.
  • Introduced as a garden pond plant.
  • Escapes from garden ponds and readily fragments leading to the establishment of new colonies in the wild.
  • Incorrect disposal of garden waste near waterways
  • Possibility of accidental spread by fragments attaching to footwear or fishing equipment including boats and nets.

Management

Prevention

Should not be released in the wild. Dispose of garden and pond waste responsibily. Check vehicles, boats, equipment and clothing for plant fragments when leaving infested sites and clean if necessary.

Physical Control

Mechanical control can be effective in enclosed or slow flowing waterbodies where downstream spread of cuttings can be prevented. Chemical control of remaining plants should be undertaken.

Chemical Control

The Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Centre for Aquatic Plant Management Information Sheet (Click here to download) states that the plant can be controlled by applications of dichlobenil in spring. Other effective herbicides are those that contain 2,4D amine. Applications of glyphosate later in the season can also be effective.

Note all chemical treatments must be licensed by SEPA.

 

Biological Control

None

Links

Non Native Species Secretariat identification guide

Non Native Species Secretariat Fact Sheet (Not yet available)

SNH SAF Training Manual

Invasive Species Ireland Fact Sheet

Daisie Species Fact Sheets

Global Invasive Species Database