Have you ever heard of Tussocks, Sudds, Floatons or Drifting Islands? For those who arent familiar 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 deviate in size, being a small as a few square feet or as large as several hundred square acres. This natural phenomenon is seen all around the world. Tussocks are ofttimes found in lakes and marshlands.
Tussocks are made often of cattails, bulrush, sedge and reeds that have extended from the shoreline of a marshland area. Flora that hangs over the land will often begin to build up. This sometimes happens because the water level might be low in the root area so the tip of the floras tries to reach the water by hanging and soon afterward, separating. The area under the floating mat is usually very rich with aquatic living organisms. Eventually harsh weather or storms cause the overhanging section to break from the shoreline. The mass begins to migrate and finally clings onto another landform. Wind helps to move the mountain along, but anything to harsh can destroy the mass. Trees up to 50 feet tall and 8-12 inches in diameter have been known to grow on Tussocks.
Tussocks are a sign of healthy aging in bodies of water. Individuals say it has been a part of Floridas shallow lakes. Their number and enormity was altered by droughts, fire, and floods. Floods are the most familiar mode of transportation for Tussocks. Downstream fens and uplands are places the floods have moved many Tussocks.
Man made structures like wires, levees and dams check todays water levels. This binding prevents the foundation of the Tussocks because the water level gets too high or too low in most places. Presently, most people do not admire these drifting islands. The island not only carry itself but many times animals too. It is not uncommon to see amphibians or reptiles along for a ride. Personally the arrival of an alligator at my front door would not be a welcomed creature. The tussocks dont always bring red alerted organisms, but it also might bring good plants and herbs along with it.
Tussocks are also responsible for another great problem. Tussocks can block paths to essential shipping harbour. This can cause many problems for businessman who works near areas of water. Boats can be stopped and damaged by it. It might also block the paths of irrigation systems. Many governments are wasting millions so that Tussocks dont get in their way of living a happy life. Herbicides have been used in an campaign to control these structures. Pricey ways like shredders and flatboat mounted track hoes have been used 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.
