Starry Stonewort Identification & Treatment
Scientific Name: Nitellopsis obtusa Category: Algae-like (macroalga) Tier: 3 — Localized — Limited geographic range or lower frequency
← Back to Plant Identification Guide | Product Cross-Reference | Ecoregion Guide
Identification
Starry stonewort resembles chara but is typically taller (can reach 6+ feet), more robust, and produces distinctive star-shaped bulbils at the base and along stems. Lacks the garlic/musky odor of chara. Does not have the gritty calcium carbonate texture. Key distinguishing features:
- Star-shaped white bulbils (diagnostic)
- Taller and more robust than chara
- No garlic/musky odor
- Smoother texture than chara
Treatment
- Hydrothol Granular (endothall) — Most effective option.
- Copper-based algaecides may provide some control.
- Extremely difficult to eradicate once established due to persistent bulbils.
Full Profile
- Native Range: Europe and Asia
- US Distribution: Great Lakes region, expanding. EPA Ecoregions: Northern Lakes and Forests, Erie Drift Plain, North Central Hardwood Forests. USDA Zones 3–7.
- Regulatory Status: Listed as invasive in Great Lakes states.
- Habitat: Lakes and ponds. Grows in 3–30 feet of water. Prefers hard, alkaline water.
- Reproduction: Bulbils (star-shaped) survive in sediment and are very difficult to eliminate.
- Ecological Benefits: Limited. Displaces native chara and submerged plant communities. Dense beds alter fish habitat.
Sources: MSU Extension | USDA PLANTS Database
Related Species
- Flowering Rush (Butomus umbellatus) — Emergent, Tier 3
- European Frog's-bit (Hydrocharis morsus-ranae) — Floating, Tier 3
- Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) — Emergent, Tier 3
- Smartweed (Persicaria spp. (formerly Polygonum)) — Emergent, Tier 3
- Mosquito Fern (Azolla) (Azolla spp.) — Floating, Tier 3
- American Lotus (Nelumbo lutea) — Emergent/Floating, Tier 3
← Back to Plant Identification Guide | Product Cross-Reference | Beneficial Considerations
Natural Waterscapes — Expert Aquatic Plant Identification & Treatment Need help identifying a plant? Send us a photo and our experts will identify it for you.