Bladderwort

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Bladderworts (Utricularia spp.) are a large, varied group of aquatic plants characterized by many small bladders formed from leaf segments. They are submerged, rootless plants with alternate, finely dissected leaves. In some species the leaves may be whorled. Although roots are absent, some species have modified stems that anchor to the bottom of the pond. Flowers extend above water surface on tall stalks and are usually purple or yellow but can be white or blue.

Bladderworts are abundant in some areas of Mississippi, but generally cause no problems in commercial or sport-fish ponds. They occur mainly in acid water with a mucky or sandy bottom. Click here to view pictures of this plant.

Either of the treatments listed will generally give good results. Be sure to read and follow label instructions before using any chemical in water.

Special care was taken to make certain that all herbicide treatments are registered with the Environmental Protection Agency for use in the manner described. Registrations of specific practices are often changed or deleted; therefore, treatments suggested in this information sheet may not remain current indefinitely. Read and observe the manufacturer's label to prevent misuse of a herbicide. It is not intended or proposed that usage of any given practice suggested in this information sheet be in violation with existing registration or manufacturer's label.

If you fail to carefully read and follow suggested treatments, you could cause extensive damage to the environment, crops, livestock or humans.