Michx.
Identity
Unique IDELEMENT_GLOBAL.2.142773
Element CodePMHYD03030
Record TypeSPECIES
ClassificationSpecies
Classification StatusStandard
Name CategoryVascular Plant
IUCNLeast concern
Endemicoccurs (regularly, as a native taxon) in multiple nations
KingdomPlantae
PhylumAnthophyta
ClassMonocotyledoneae
OrderHydrocharitales
FamilyHydrocharitaceae
GenusElodea
SynonymsAnacharis canadensis(Michx.) Planch.
Other Common NamesCanadian Waterweed (EN) Canadian waterweed (EN) Élodée du Canada (FR)
Concept ReferenceKartesz, J.T. 1994. A synonymized checklist of the vascular flora of the United States, Canada, and Greenland. 2nd edition. 2 vols. Timber Press, Portland, OR.
Conservation Status
Rank Method Rank calculation - Biotics v2
Review Date2024-08-09
Change Date1984-04-24
Edition Date2024-08-09
Edition AuthorsN. Ventrella (2024)
Threat ImpactUnknown
Range Extent>2,500,000 square km (greater than 1,000,000 square miles)
Number of Occurrences> 300
Rank ReasonsElodea canadensis is a perennial aquatic herb occurring in calcareous waters of rivers, lakes, ponds, and stagnant waters in streams throughout most of North America, though it may be introduced in its southern distribution. It also occurs in Europe, Asia, and Australia. This diminutive species is underrepresented in herbaria collections and photo-based observations, but is common and widespread in northeastern North America. With a large range extent, high number of occurrences, abundant habitat, broad habitat preferences, and no obvious intrinsic vulnerabilities, Elodea canadensis is considered secure.
Range Extent CommentsElodea canadensis occurs throughout most of North America, from British Columbia east to Nova Scotia, Canada, south through most of the United States (FNA 2000), though it may be exotic and introduced in its southern distribution (Weakley and the Southeastern Flora Team 2024). It also occurs in Europe, Asia, and Australia (FNA 2000).
Occurrences CommentsThis species is underrepresented in herbaria collections and photo-based observations, and not all collections are georeferenced. However, it is a common species of the northeastern United States (Native Plant Trust 2024), and anecdotal comments support the likelihood that there are over 300 occurrences rangewide.
Threat Impact CommentsElodea canadensis is threatened by pollution and drainage of wetlands (Southern Appalachian Species Viability Project 2002).