Simard, Jonathan2025-03-072025-03-072024https://hdl.handle.net/1828/21401This study investigates growth of PF in Somenos Creek, exploring possible explanations for growth distribution, and interaction with other aquatic plants. As such, it looks to investigate these distinct but related questions: 1) What makes PF growth and spread across and along the Creek so effective? 2) What factors explain PF’s presence/absence in certain areas (esp. headwaters versus downstream)? 3) What explains the distribution/interaction of PF’s growth and presence with other aquatic plants? My methodology consists of literature review in aquatic botany, including past empirical research conducted by Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society (SMWS) experts in aquatic biology. The question of presence/absence and interaction with Yellow Pond Lily and Smartweed are explored as part of ongoing discussion and associated water quality fieldwork conducted at Somenos Creek from May-July 2024. As such, this paper offers preliminary conclusions with an intent to guide further research: • As an invasive plant species transported to North America, PF’s growth strategy originally adapted to tropical South America. PF may leverage associated competitive growth strategies in eutrophic North American habitats, like Somenos Creek. • Removal of riparian vegetation for development activities increases sunlight exposure, detrital buildup and leaching, and urban and agricultural run-off, contributing to PF growth by increasing nutrient availability. • The absence of PF growth at the tributary, Richards Creek, despite high Phosphorus, may point to introduction at an intermediate area of Somenos Basin, e.g., Somenos Lake or Somenos Creek. • The disappearance of PF at headwaters of Somenos Creek may be explained by out competition of Yellow Pond Lilies. At intermediate waters, both plants grow separated on either side of the Creek. On the other hand, Smart Weed grows near PF. Noting empirical literature on PF, and fieldwork and study by SMWS, Section 2 outlines PF’s lifecycle, spread, and impact in Somenos Creek. As an invasive plant, PF stops boat travel, causes near-zero water column oxygen levels, threatens fish survival, and limits neighbouring plant growth. Section 3 examines factors explaining PF’s invasion success. Subsection A examines ecosystem characteristics that render Somenos Creek more vulnerable to proliferation of invasive species like PF upon introduction. Subsection B reviews literature in aquatic botany examining PF growth adaptations under varying nutrient and light conditions in fieldwork and lab studies. Subsection C examines interaction between PF and native plant communities, focusing on the role of allelopathy, and competitive growth mechanics of two successful native plants, Yellow Pond Lily, and Smartweed.eninvasive speciesSomenos Creekaquatic plantsparrot's featherSustainability Scholars ProgramReport