McCann Book Chapter 3 Section 1 Nonindigenous Aquatic and Semi-Aquatic Plants in Freshwater Systems Nonindigenous Aquatic Plants Aquatic and wetland plants are important components of the lakes, ponds, and streams of Florida. The state has an abundance of freshwater and salt water ecosystems that encompass more than 1,012,500 surface hectares.
Recreation includes boating, fishing, water skiing, and hunting in the freshwaters of the state.
Aquatic plants form an important link between the base of the foodweb and the higher forms of plant and animal lives. Of the more than 700 aquatic plants in the world, fewer than 20 are considered major pests or weeds. The negative effects of excessive plant growth can be direct or indirect. Holm et al. Florida has been particularly susceptible to exotic-plant invasions because of its semitropical climate and abundance of aquatic habitats.