Rotala: A New Canal Invader in Southern Florida

Figure 1.  Rotala infesting a flood control canal in Naples, Florida  Rotala is a relative newcomer to Florida. Since it was first found in Coral Springs in 1996, it has established large, but mostly isolated, populations throughout the southern regions of Florida. It is especially problematic in Lee and Collier Counties and along the west coast. Extremely dense submersed populations and large thick mats dominate the surface of the water, greatly reducing ecosystem services, because oxygen level and light penetration are hampered. Because the rapid and vigorous growth of rotala inhibits water flow, the ability of infested canals to function properly in flood control systems is greatly hindered. Management of this aquatic weed is a major concern for resource managers. This 4-page fact sheet was written by Lyn A. Gettys and Carl J. Della Torre II, and published by the UF Department of Agronomy, April 2014.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ag381

Effects of Canals and Levees on Everglades Ecosystems [Fact Sheet] (WEC309/UW354)

Canals and levees are the foundation of south Florida’s water management system. However, degradation of Everglades ecosystems has resulted directly from these structures and their effects of drainage and impoundment. This 3-page fact sheet summarizes the science on ecological and hydrological impacts of Everglades canals and levees. Written by Rebecca G. Harvey, William F. Loftus, Jennifer S. Rehage, and Frank J. Mazzotti, and published by the UF Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, February 2011.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/uw354

WEC282/UW327 Planning for Climate Change in South Florida: Climate Envelope Modeling for Threatened and Endangered Species

WEC282, a 3-page illustrated fact sheet by Laura A. Brandt, Stephanie S. Romañach and Frank J. Mazzotti, describes a project of the University of Florida, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey, and National Park Service to develop methods and tools that will allow natural resource managers to examine potential effects of climate change on species’ geographic ranges in the context of ecosystem and landscape planning in South Florida. Published by the UF Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, May 2010.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/uw327

ENH1098/EP362 Nutrient Deficiency Symptoms of Woody Ornamental Plants in South Florida

ENH-1098, a 5-page illustrated fact sheet by Timothy K. Broschat, describes and illustrates typical symptoms for common nutrient deficiencies in trees and shrubs grown in south Florida landscapes. Published by the UF Department of Environmental Horticulture, March 2008.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu