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If these
fern colonies cover the surface of the water, then
oxygen depletion and fish kills can occur, but
is easily controlled simply by scooping it out.
These
plants should be controlled before they cover the
entire surface of the pond.
Dense
colonies of mosquito fern provide habitats for many
micro and macro invertebrates. These invertebrates
in turn are used as food by fish and other wildlife
species (e.g. amphibians, reptiles, ducks, etc.).
After aquatic plants die, their decomposition by
bacteria and fungi provides food (called “detritus”)
for many aquatic invertebrates. It
harbors nitrogen-fixing bacteria and is good fertilizer,
and helps control algae by shading water surface
and competing for nutrients.
Water Fern disappears
from the surface in winter, but spores sink to bottom
and new plants appear in spring. It may be overwintered
in a light or dark location.
Hardy
to Zone 7.
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