Chara (Muskgrass) Identification & Treatment
Scientific Name: Chara spp. Category: Algae-like (technically a macroalga, not a true plant) Tier: 2 — Regionally Significant — Common in multiple EPA ecoregions
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Identification
Chara resembles a submerged plant but is actually a large, branching alga. It has a gritty, crunchy texture due to calcium carbonate deposits on its surface. Whorled branches give it a superficially plant-like appearance. Has a distinctive musky or garlic-like odor when crushed (hence "muskgrass"). Key distinguishing features:
- Gritty/crunchy texture from calcium deposits
- Musky or garlic-like odor when crushed
- No true roots, stems, or leaves — but looks plant-like
- Whorled branching pattern
- Grows as dense mats on the pond bottom
Treatment
Recommended Natural Waterscapes Products:
- Hydrothol Granular (endothall) — Granular algaecide/herbicide that sinks to the bottom. Hydrothol Granular
- Aquathol K (endothall) — Liquid formulation.
- Copper-based algaecides can also be effective.
Full Profile
- Native Range: Cosmopolitan — found worldwide
- US Distribution: All 50 states. All EPA ecoregions. USDA Zones 3–11.
- Regulatory Status: Not regulated.
- Habitat: Ponds, lakes, slow streams. Prefers hard, alkaline water with clear conditions. Often among the first colonizers of new ponds.
- Reproduction: Fragmentation and spores (oospores).
- Ecological Benefits: Chara is frequently beneficial. It stabilizes sediments, provides excellent fish habitat (especially for juvenile fish and spawning), supports invertebrate communities, and its calcium-encrusted surfaces reduce phosphorus availability — helping to maintain water clarity. In many ponds, chara is desirable and should be preserved rather than treated. Management is only recommended when growth becomes excessive.
Sources: Texas A&M AquaPlant – Chara | USDA PLANTS Database
These species are primarily problematic in specific EPA ecoregions or are encountered less frequently by pond and lake owners. Included for completeness and regional relevance.
Related Species
- Sago Pondweed (Stuckenia pectinata (formerly Potamogeton pectinatus)) — Submerged, Tier 2
- Bladderwort (Utricularia spp.) — Submerged (free-floating), Tier 2
- Parrot Feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum) — Emergent / Submerged, Tier 2
- Cabomba (Fanwort) (Cabomba caroliniana) — Submerged, Tier 2
- Water Lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) — Floating, Tier 2
- Dollar Weed (Pennywort) (Hydrocotyle spp. (H. umbellata, H. ranunculoides, H. verticillata)) — Emergent, Tier 2
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