Species that are considered uncertain risk need a more in-depth assessment beyond the Risk Summary to better define the species’ risk to U.S. environments.
Salvinia auriculata, Eared Watermoss, is a free-floating perennial aquatic fern native to Central and South America. This species is found in the aquarium and horticultural trade worldwide; in the United States, it is listed as a Federal noxious weed and several States prohibit or restrict its trade or possession. This species has been reported as introduced in many locations outside of its native range, but some of these reports were misapplications of the name S. auriculata to a different species. The species is now established outside its native range in Chile, Taiwan, Togo, and the West Indies, including Puerto Rico; additionally, it is possibly established in parts of Europe and South Asia. Information on impacts of introduction is very limited, describing either broad observed impacts for a suite of invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.
Learn more about invasive species or potential impacts based on behavior of the species within its native range. The history of invasiveness is classified as Data Deficient. The overall climate match for the contiguous United States is High, with high match being found primarily along the southern border of the country. The certainty of assessment is Low due to limited information on impacts of introduction and historical misapplication of the species scientific name. The overall risk assessment category for Salvinia auriculata is Uncertain.
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Uncertain Risk
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