Ecological Importance of Northern Wild Rice

Northern Wild Rice

is an annual, aquatic grass species that grows in slow-moving rivers and shallow lakes in the Great Lakes region of North America, where it is extremely important ecologically in aquatic ecosystems.

Moose, Loon, Whitetail Deer and Bobwhite use wild rice as food. Bobwhite, Rainbow trout and Lake Frog use it as habitat.

The wild rice life cycle. Stages include: Germination, submerged leaf, floating leaf, aerial shoots, flowering and ripening and falling

References

Fannucchi, W.A. 1983. Wildlife use of wild rice beds and the impact of rice harvesting on wildlife in east central Minnesota. M.S. Thesis, University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point.

Dore, W. 1969. The wild rice plant. Canada Department of Agriculture Plant Research Institute Publication Number 1393

Rogosin, A. 1954. An ecological history of wild rice. Minnesota Committee on Wild Rice. Minnesota Department of Conservation, Division of Game and Fish.

What is a Keystone Species?

A species which contributes important services to an ecosystem and whose removal would drastically change the ecosystem
The health of many Great Lakes ecosystems can be gauged by the health of their northern wild rice populations

Ecosystem Services

Roots help anchor saturated soil to keep water clean and clear
Utilizes nutrients like phosphorus, preventing algal blooms
Acts as a wind buffer, keeping water calm

Threats to Northern Wild Rice

Water pollutants
- Mining waste water
- Agricultural runoff
Water Levels
- Dams: too much or too little
Weather
- Storms
- Wind
Disease
Invasive Species
- Competition: aquatic plants
- Predation: Asian carp
Tourism
- Lakeshore development
- Boat motor damage