Native to southeast Brazil, this highly invasive plant is often introduced accidentally when it hitches a ride on the trailer of unsuspecting boaters. Once established, it forms large floating mats that can double in size in 7-10 days. It may be confused with the non-native common salvinia, but is distinguishable by the “egg-beater shape” hair-like structures on its leaf. Giant salvinia can causes significant economic and ecological loss by impeding navigation, reducing water flow, and interfering with fishing and boating. IF DISCOVERED, IT SHOULD BE REPORTED IMMEDIATELY TO YOUR LOCAL GADNR OFFICE.