What type of plants does fluridone primarily control?

Fluridone is a systemic herbicide predominantly effective in managing submersed flowering plants. This action occurs because fluridone disrupts the synthesis of carotenoids, which are vital for the health and development of these specific aquatic plants. As a result, the herbicide inhibits growth and can lead to the eventual die-off of these species.

Submersed flowering plants often include species like coontail and Eurasian watermilfoil, which can significantly impact water quality, biodiversity, and recreational use of water bodies. The effectiveness of fluridone in targeting these plants makes it a suitable choice for managing overgrowth and restoring balance in aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, the long half-life of fluridone in water allows it to provide extended control, further ensuring that submersed flowering plants do not rebound rapidly after treatment.

In contrast to the other options, fluridone is less effective on emergent plants, floating algae, and rooted floating plants, which have different biological characteristics and growth forms that do not respond to fluridone in the same manner.