Background A wide variety of information is valuable in understanding the impact on and spread of purple loosestrife in the wetlands. Scientist are in the process of gathering data on this widely spreading plant. In Canada, scientists mapping the location of purple loosestrife noticed that it has not taken hold and spread in more acidic waters and soils of the Canadian Shield but is found widespread in the more basic water and soils south of the Canadian Shield. Cattails and other keystone wetland species are known to cleanse water of pollutants such as nitrates, phosphates, chlorine's and other more dangerous pollutants originating in waste water, runoff, industrial discharges and farm runoff. These herbaceous, absorbent plants help capture and hold, use and change, pollutants and provide a barrier to sediment runoff as well as a sponge for excess water.
Indigenous plants provide a breeding place for organisms of all sizes and types.
Purple loosestrife forms dense stands of vegetation crowding out other species. It is not useful for shelter and food as are indigenous plants. There is no indication that it absorbs and alters pollutants as do the major keystone wetland species. It definitely alters the ecosystem. It is important for students studying science to do real science and to do something useful with their findings.