Turion ecology of hydrilla

A literature survey was conducted to compile the numerous papers on the ecology of subterranean and axillary turions produced by the exotic macrophyte hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata (L.f.) Royle). The monoecious and dioecious biotypes of hydrilla exhibit distinct differences in seasonal turion prod...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of aquatic plant management 1997-01, Vol.35, p.1-10
Main Author: Netherland, MD
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Freshwater
Hydrilla verticillata
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Summary:A literature survey was conducted to compile the numerous papers on the ecology of subterranean and axillary turions produced by the exotic macrophyte hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata (L.f.) Royle). The monoecious and dioecious biotypes of hydrilla exhibit distinct differences in seasonal turion production, turion production in response to photoperiod, quantity and size of turions produced, and geographic distribution. Although a high level of variability exists within and between aquatic systems, several million subterranean turions per hectare have been reported. These propagules have been noted to remain quiescent in undisturbed sediment for up to 4 years and they represent the key target in breaking the life-cycle of hydrilla. The detached turions allow hydrilla to survive abiotic, biotic, and anthropogenic induced stress. Although turions sprout optimally at temperatures between 15 and 35 C, factors such as light, CO sub(2), oxygen, and various plant hormones and herbicides have been shown to either promote or inhibit sprouting. Improving control strategies for hydrilla requires a better understanding of factors that influence turion quiescence, sprouting, and longevity.
ISSN:0146-6623