Water Chestnut Trapa natans L.

Water ChestnutTrapa natans L.

Brady Seeley

Distribution

Distribution cont.

• Prefers shallow water in lakes or streams.• Distribution is limited.

Basic Info

• Also called water nut or water caltrop

• Native to Eurasia• Introduced in late

1800’s• Noxious

Description

• Rooted, annual aquatic plant

• Glossy, green leaves• Single small, white

flowers

Reproduction

• Seeds germinate in the spring• Produce hard, nut like seeds in July• Seeds can remain viable in the sediment for

up to 12 years• Seed dispersal by water, animals, and humans

Threats and Management

• Aggressive, prolific reproducer• Creates light impenetrable mats of vegetation• Coordinate with PA state agencies• Public education• Include on invasive species list

Questions?

References• Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. AIS Action Plan:

Water Chestnut. [Internet]. 2011 June. Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. [cited Oct. 1, 2012]. Available from: http://www.fish.state.pa.us/ais/ais-action-water-chestnut.pdf