American Wildcelery (Vallisneria americana) Ecological Considerations for Restoration

Lakes and riverine impoundments that contain an abundance of the American wildcelery plant (Vallisneria americana) have traditionally been favored by canvasback ducks (Aythya valisineria) and other waterfowl species as feeding areas during migration. Information on the ecology of V. americana is summarized to serve as a guide for potential wetland restoration projects.

Because of the geographic diversity and wetland conditions in which V. americana is found, we have avoided making hard-and-fast conclusions about the requirements of the plant. Rather, we present as much general information as possible and provide the sources of more specific information. Vallisneria americana is a submersed aquatic plant that has management potential.