What to Do if You See Invasive Water Soldier Plant in New York

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is warning residents about a new invasive plant that has been identified in New York State.

From insects and fish to plants and trees, there are many invasive species in New York State that pose dangers to native wildlife. While some species have become famous, others are just hitting the radar.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation recently discovered the presence of a new invasive species of plant in New York (NYS Department of Environmental Conservation via Facebook)

New Invasive Species Found in New York State

While most New Yorkers have heard of spongy moth caterpillars (and the moths that they become), Japanese beetles, and even the aggressive "Frankenfish" that can slither over the ground and breathe air, there's a new, less-suspicious species making its debut (below).

Water soldier, known scientifically as Stratiotes aloides, is an invasive plant recently found in New York State (Canva)

Invasive Plant Water Soldier Found in New York State

Recently, the DEC took to social media to warn residents about an aquatic plant (above). Spotted for the first time in late 2024, officials are now saying that its spread is already underway:

In fall 2024, an invasive aquatic plant called water soldier was confirmed for the first time in New York... This week, DEC staff pulled this invasive plant from a small pond in southeastern NY.

What Is Water Soldier, New York's Latest Invasive Plant?

Water solider, which looks roughly like an aloe plant with small white jasmine flowers, is an aquatic plant native to areas of Europe and Asia. Unfortunately, the spread of water soldier in New York (and North America as a whole) can be harmful for native species.

What Harm Does Water Soldier Cause in New York State?

Experts share that the dense patterns in which water soldier grows means that it can block sunlight for other plants trying to grow, which not only harms native plants, but the animals who would use those plants as a food source as well.

Get our free mobile app

What to Do If You See Water Soldier Plant

The NYS DEC is asking residents to join the fight against one of the state's newest invasive species. Water soldier sightings can be reported HERE with photographs of the plant as well as a location of where it was found. Check out more invasive species below.

New York State's Invasive Plants To Be On The Lookout For

These seven invasive plants have become a nuisance to the wildlife and people living in New York State. Learn more about them and how to remove them at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation here.