Aquatic vegetation plays an important and fundamental ecological role in Texas freshwater ecosystem.
Unfortunately, too much of a good thing can ruin a healthy and otherwise productive environment. That has often been the case with exotic species, especially aquatic plants. Our research and experience, and that of scientists throughout the southern states, clearly demonstrates the positive benefits to both fish populations and sportfishing when aquatic vegetation is present. The difficulty arises when vegetative surface coverage becomes excessive, particularly when the plant is a non-native species like hydrilla. Access to fishing, boating, swimming and other water-related activities can become a real problem when one of these exotic species gets out of control.