Certain types of algae produce compounds which cause a musty flavor or odor in fish flesh. Floating weeds float in or on the surface of the water and obtain their nutrients from water rather than soil. Emersed weeds are rooted to the bottom, but have stems, leaves and flowers which extend above the water surface. They primarily occur on the shoreline and in shallow water up to 10feet deep. Submersed aquatic weeds grow under and up to the water surface.
Most submersed weeds have flowers and seedheads that extend above the surface of the water.
Basic methods used to control weeds include preventive, mechanical,biological and chemical techniques. It is easier and less costly to prevent weed problems than it is to control them once they develop. Careful pond site selection and proper pond construction practices are the first steps in preventing aquatic weed problems. Edges of new and existing ponds should be deepened so shallow water areas are minimized. The USDA Soil Conser-vation Service provides technical assistance for pond construction and renovation.