This rusty colored fern was not as vivid in the direct sun. This plant, Mosquito Fern, is thick, mushy, and even crowds out the Duck Weed. The invasive variety, which I don’t think this is, can block all the light and oxygen from the swamp/pond.
The Alligators pay it no mind, it makes a nice camouflage.
Above is an interesting look at an Alligators cap, a large scale protecting their head.
I was fascinated to see your post on the mosquito fern, Ted! Another similarity to our wetlands here, and one I never learned about till several years ago. Our mosquito fern doesn’t get quite that dense, and it dissipates on its own after a certain period of time. The good thing is that it aids in blocking the mosquito larvae. Hence, along with the work of our little silver mosquito fish, we can boast about why there are rarely mosquitoes at our wetlands.
I think we just started having it this dense about 4 years ago. Part of this swamp, where it thrives, was drained cue to old broken pipes. After that it showed up, the same area had water lowered to dig out cattails and other grass. I fear it is so dense there is no light or air getting to the water.
I can see how it has become a serious problem. I hope ours stays in check.