BIOLOGY AND PHYSIOLOGY
Hydrilla can establish and then displace native aquatic plants such as pondweeds
(Potamogeton sp.) and eelgrass (Vallisneria americana Michaux). While all aquatic plants
have developed adaptations for life in the aquatic environment, hydrilla seems to be a couple
of steps ahead of other submersed plants. Research has identified many of the characteristics
that enable hydrilla to exist and compete so effectively. Some of these characteristics are very
simple and effective while others are complex and of scientific interest.