Bladderwort
Utricularia gibba
Bladderwort
Other Common name: Huped bladderwort
This species is in New Zealand, but is very similar to a native variety.
Synonyms
was initially identified as Utricularia biflora (Flora vol. 4) Utricularia exoleta
Description
Bladderworts are mat-forming algae-like perennials that are submerged just below the surface of the water or entangled with other plants. U. gibba is a carnivorous plant with complex modified underwater appendages or "sacs". These sacs trap insects and other small animals. It has no roots, and very thin stems with filament-like leaves which are either single or paired with sacs (1-2 mm long). From December to May yellow flowers (6 mm in diameter) are produced that protrude up to 20 cm above the water surface. There are several native species of bladderwort, including a very similar plant (Ultricularia australis) which is endangered.
Impact
Bladderwort has specially adapted to low-nutrient environments, such as bogs and swamps, and outcompetes native bladderworts also adapted to similar environments.
What to do
Contact your regional council to determine the status of this species and responsibility for control and/or advice on control.
- NPPA Manual
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Useful Resources
Page last updated: 24 March 2009