perunkelp

Perunkelp is a common name for the aquatic plant Elodea canadensis. It is a submerged species belonging to the family Hydrocharitaceae. Native to North America, perunkelp has been widely introduced to other continents, including Europe, Asia, and Australia, where it is often considered an invasive species.

This plant is characterized by its long, trailing stems that can grow several meters in length. Its leaves are typically arranged in whorls of three along the stem, are oblong to lance-shaped, and have a finely toothed margin. Perunkelp reproduces both vegetatively through fragmentation and sexually by producing small, inconspicuous flowers that float on the water's surface.

Perunkelp thrives in a variety of freshwater habitats, including lakes, ponds, slow-moving rivers, and ditches, preferring nutrient-rich water. Its rapid growth and ability to reproduce efficiently allow it to form dense mats, which can have significant ecological impacts. These dense growths can impede water flow, reduce light penetration to other aquatic organisms, and alter oxygen levels. In some regions, it is a significant problem for navigation, water management, and native aquatic ecosystems. Despite its invasive tendencies, perunkelp can also provide habitat and food for some aquatic fauna and has been used in aquariums and for scientific experiments due to its ease of cultivation.