Every lake in Maine is a place of wonder and discovery. The Field Guide to Aquatic Phenomena has been developed by Lake Stewards of Maine not only to provide a knowledgeable mobile companion for lake-bound adventurers; but also, to engage lake users in the important work of spotting threats to lakes as early as possible. Users may search a wide array of aquatic FAUNA, FLORA and OTHER LAKE PHENOMENA, zeroing in on the phenomena of concern and/or interest through a series of simple keys. There is also a quick link to the entire current catalog of AQUATIC INVADERS.
Version 1.0 of the app focuses on common and/or potentially problematic phenomena that people might encounter when out on a lake in Maine. Once launched, the initial catalog will be updated and enhanced regularly.
Future developments, already in the pipeline, will enable users who establish an app account, to play an active role in the ongoing development of this infinitely expandable resource by submitting photos and/or suggestions for new catalog categories and entries. Maine-based account holders will also be able to submit photos of—and data pertaining to—suspicious phenomena, for review and feedback from LSM and partnering experts. Soon there will also be a web version of the app for laptop and desktop device users.
Content Notes
Photo Credits
We are grateful to the many contributors that have given us permission to use their images in this app. Currently LSM has the citation information for each image on file, accessible to the public upon request. Soon users will find each image properly tagged with source/permission information.
Algae
There are many forms of algae capable of producing mats, several types of algae capable of producing cotton-candy-like clouds, and many forms of free-floating (planktonic) algae capable of coloring the water (like spilled paint). Identifying a particular algal occurrence to the level of genus and/or species can be very challenging. In most cases, careful microscopic examination using more complete taxonomic keys will be required. The taxonomic categories (genera) of algae featured in all three algae categories are not comprehensive in this app. Generally, just a few examples are listed to help illustrate the biological diversity within the group.
Vascular Aquatic Plants

If the aquatic plant in question does NOT fit into one of the following three categories:
• PLANTS WITH PRIMARY LEAVES FLOATING, NOT RIBBON-LIKE;
• PLANTS WITH BLADE- OR STRAP-SHAPED LEAVES ON SUBMERSED STEMS; or
• PLANTS WITH FINELY-DIVIDED LEAVES ON SUBMERSED STEMS,
It does NOT exhibit characteristics consistent with any of the 11 invasive aquatic plants on Maine’s prohibited list. This means it fits into the EVERYTHING ELSE category, and can be assumed to be a native plant. The catalog of native plants that fit into the EVERYTHING ELSE category will be added as time and resources allow.

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Contact:
207-783-7733
[email protected]
www.lakestewardsofmaine.org