Do you know what Tussocks, Sudds, Floatons or Floating Islands are? If not, the answer is simple; they are clusters of Floating peat, muck and aquatic plants. Nutrient rubble and flora roots are also in the structure of these islands. Actually, the sizes of these drifting islands can be a few feet to 100's of acres. These naturally occurring islands can be found all over. Tussocks are frequently found in lakes and marshes. Tussocks are made often of cattails, bulrush, sedge and reeds that have extended from the shoreline of a wetland area. Overhanging flora will build up around the shoreline. This could happen as a result of low water levels; water flora tips may try to reach the water, which results in hanging and finally separation. Mostly the area right under the tussock is full of living aquatic organisms. Eventually, a harsh weather or storms tears off the section. The mountain begins to migrate and finally clings onto another landform. Wind helps to move the mountain along, but anything to harsh can destroy the mass. Some larger Tussocks are able to support trees that grow up to 50 feet tall with diameters between 8-12 inches.
Tussocks are a symbolisation of the aging procedure of bodies of water. Tussocks are said to be a part of the shallow lakes in Florida. Their number and enormity was altered by droughts, fire, and floods. Floods are the most familiar mode of transfer for Tussocks. Most Tussocks have been deposited in downstream marshes or upland areas.
In the today’s world, man made structures such as wires, levees, and dykes are made to preserve the water level. The man made structures discourage Tussock formation because water levels are often times too high or too low. Most people, these days, don’t cherish the influx of drifting islands. The island not only carry itself but many times animals too. It is not uncommon to see amphibians or reptilians along for a ride. Personally the arrival of an gator at my front door would not be a welcomed creature. The Tussocks don’t always bring unwelcome creatures, oftentimes they are carriers of good floras and herbs.
Tussocks are also responsible for another large problem. Tussocks can block paths to significant shipping harbour. This can cause a lot of worry for a businessman who works no where near the water. Boats can be blocked and damaged by it. It might also block the routes of irrigation systems. Many governments are wasting millions so that Tussocks don’t get in their way of having a happy life. herbicides have been used in a campaign to control the Tussocks. Some Tussocks have been controlled through pricey ways like shedding
and the use of a barge mounted track hoe.
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.