Ever heard of Tussocks, Sudds, Floatons or Drifting Islands? For those who isnt intimate with these things, simply put, they are Drifting masses of mud, peat, and aquatic plants. The islands are also comprised of plant roots and other organic detritus. The islands vary in size, being a small] as a few square feet or as large as numerous hundred square acres. The naturally occurring occurrence can be found the globe over. Tussocks are often found in lakes and marshlands.
Tussocks are made frequently of cattails, bulrush, sedge and reeds that have extended from the shoreline of a wetland area. When the vegetation hangs over from the shore it starts togrow. This could happen as a result of low water levels; water flora tips may try to reach the water, which results in hanging and eventually separation. Marine organisms flourish under the drifting mats. Eventually, a harsh weather or storms tears off the section. The mass begins to migrate and finally clings onto another landform. The wind helps it to transmigrate, but sometimes the harsh weather totally destroys it and mix it with the water. Some bigger Tussocks are able to support trees that grow up to 50 feet tall with diameters between 8-12 inches.
Tussocks are a sign of healthy aging in bodies of water. People say it has been a part of Floridas shallow lakes. Droughts, fires and floods have greatly changed the number of existing Tussocks. More than not floods carry most of the Floating islands. Downstream fenland and upland are the most common deposit areas for Tussocks.
Man made devices like wires, levees and dams check todays water levels. This binding prevents the creation of the Tussocks because the water level gets too high or too low in most places. Presently, most people do not admire these floating islands. The island not only carry itself but many times beasts too. It is not uncommon to see amphibians or reptiles along for a ride. I personally dont think someone would enjoy the arrival of a big deadly gator beside their home. The tussocks dont always bring red alerted organisms, but it also might bring good plants and herbs along with it.
There is one more big problem that is caused by these roaming islands. Tussocks can block routes to important shipping ports. This can cause many problems for business people who works near areas of water. Boats can be blocked and damaged by it. It might also block the routes of irrigation systems. Many governments are blowing millions so that Tussocks dont get in their way of living a happy life. herbicides have been used in an attempt to control the Tussocks. Costly ways like shredders and barge mounted track hoes have been implemented to gain control.
About the Author:
Dave McNabb founded a full service aquatic maintenance company located in Lafayette, California in 1996. Dave started his aquatic career in 1980 with Aquatics Unlimited located in Martinez, California. In 1984 Dave became the very first Aquamog operator and has run the machines for the past 25 years.
