This is the most common and widespread of the five species of watermilfoils occurring in Russia. Its thickets emerge at depths of 0.3-2 m, in oozy soils and water rich in calcium. With high concentrations of calcium in the water, the leaves of the plant are often covered in calcium crust. This watermilfoil is particularly sensitive to the temperature of water, and somewhat to the light. The submerged meadows of watermilfoils play an important role in the life of the water body. Its thickets are home to large colonies of smaller invertebrates, which serve as fodder for many other inhabitants. The watermilfoil itself is food for phytophag fish and birds (seeds), as well as substrate for fish roe and shelter for the entire animal life of the water body – especially for fry.
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