Rooted, Floating, Submerged: Pond Vegetation

Cattails are often a vital part of a wetland or riparian ecosystem. They grow easily and can sometimes take over a pond ecosystem. Even while seeming like they are growing out of control, they are performing numerous ecosystem services.

Shoreline Stabilization and Runoff Prevention

Cattails occupy the transition zone into wetland ecosystems. Because of this, they can act as a barrier to outside runoff entering the ecosystem. This barrier works the other way as well, helping keep water from overflowing and flooding the surrounding areas. Keeping this water within the system instead of flooding out is especially important in arid regions such as our grasslands. This helps ensure that there is always water available for the organisms who use it. Cattail roots will also hold the sediment at the edge of the wetland in place, preventing erosion and maintaining the clarity of the water. 

Nutrient Uptake and Pollutant Filtration

Cattails have a large capacity to act as a nutrient and pollutant buffer for the ecosystem. They are able to take up and sequester nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, preventing harmful algal blooms. They can also act as a filter for the water system. Water that is passing the cattail “barrier” is purified of both pollutants and these extra nutrients, leading to a healthier wetland ecosystem.

Biodiversity Support 

Cattails provide important support for many organisms that live in wetlands. They are not only a food source, but are also important habitat components. Ducks and birds may use cattail reeds and fluff to build their nests. Frogs, toads and salamanders lay their eggs on the edges of the water, often attaching them to cattails for safety. Other critters will make use of the shade that the cattails provide as spaces to hide or hunt. 

Biogeochemical Support

Cattails are important for climate change mitigation. They are able to take up carbon and lock it away. They play an important role in nutrient cycling in a wetland ecosystem, and play a part in transporting oxygen to the sediments of the system. 

Cultural Significance

Cattails are widely used by indigenous groups for a number of uses. The roots and pollen are a valuable food source. The down from the seeds was used as stuffing for clothing and mattresses, or as an absorbent wound dressing and infant diapers. The leaves of cattail are valuable for weaving bags, baskets, mats, cradles, canoe sails and many other items. Portions of cattails were also used for funerary rites and ceremonies.

A cattail plant growing from the old pond at the Nature Centre. The brown seed head is highly visible amongst the green vegetation around the pond.