November 30, 2019

 Location: Lake Okeechobee Park, Okeechobee

Pictured here on the top is Common Water Hyacinth,
Surrounded by Water Lettuce
They are both invasive exotic plants
That kill native aquatic plants, which upsets us.

Sources: Click the above links for more information on how these aquatic weeds are damaging to the ecosystem.

Photo and text © 2018 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

January 30, 2018

Location: Lake Aopoka, Macdonald Canal Boat Ramp

This is Pistia stratiotes
Commonly known as Water Lettuce.
It is a favorite food of the Manatee,
To them, water plants are incredibly precious.

(Special thanks to Jim Stahl for the identification help!)

Sources: Manatee Feeding

Photo and text © 2017 Dee Fairbanks Simpson