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Engelmann’s Quillwort

Isoetes engelmannii

There are only two known populations, one on the lower Severn and the other on the Gull River. The total number of plants known in Canada is likely under 2,000.

COSEWIC Status: Endangered

COSSARO Status: Endangered

Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada

The committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada is a committee of experts who determine the national status of native species thought to be at risk of disappearing from Canada. Members include academics, specialists, Aboriginal people or government, & biologists.

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Species at Risk Status

Endangered

This species is facing imminent extirpation or extinction.

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Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario

The committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario reviews the COSEWIC status reports for species that occur in Ontario, then makes recommendations on the appropriate provincial status of the species. Provincial status is identified on the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks Species at Risk in Ontario (SARO) List.

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Species at Risk Status

Endangered

This species is facing imminent extirpation or extinction.

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Have you seen this species at risk? Report your sighting.

Habits and Reproduction

• Reproduces through spores, which mature in late summer.
• Mixing of megaspores (female) from one plant with microspores (male) from another start new plants.
• Spores are usually dispersed by water currents, so tend to be close to the parent plants.

Habitat

• Corm is anchored in sand and clay soil in shallow water along the shoreline.

Threats

• Changes in water levels and quality.
• Increase in water based recreational activities.
• Toxic spills and seepage from private and public facilities are also potential threats.
• Competition from other aquatic vegetation.
• Abundance of Zebra Mussels.

Conservation Actions

• If you live near water, your actions on your property can affect water quality. The Muskoka Watershed Council have excellent information available regarding sustainable waterfront living.