Invasive Alert

Anne Arundel County’s Dept of Recreation and Parks was recently alerted that an invasive plant called Two-horn Trapa (Trapa bispinosa) has been found in a stormwater pond in Prince George’s County. This aquatic invader is new to Maryland. Its spread is aided by thorns on its seed pots that can pierce thin-soled shoes or latch onto waterfowl to be transported between habitats.

The State of Maryland, Prince George’s County, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, and other organizations are responding aggressively to identify and treat infestations now. 

The Anne Arundel Recreation and Parks Department is not aware of this invasive in Quiet Waters Park but all county parks have been asked to keep an eye open for this invasive. With Anne Arundel County having so many aquatic habitats, getting this information shared sooner rather than later with the greater Maryland communities could help prevent spread.

Below is an image of this aquatic plant, which has a very distinct triangular shaped leaf that sits on top of the water and forms a rosette (circle).

If you see this invasive plant, please take a photo and make note of your location, then report your sighting to:

Kerry Wixted kerry.wixted@pgparks.com