Eelgrass is a submerged aquatic plant with long, ribbon-like leaves that sway with water movement. It spreads through a horizontal stem system that connects tufts of leaves, allowing it to form dense underwater meadows. A hybrid variety, found in the Tennessee River Valley, exhibits aggressive growth characteristics, making it more challenging to control. Blooming in late summer, eelgrass can reach the water’s surface, where it often impedes recreational activities such as boating and swimming. While it provides essential habitat and oxygenation benefits, excessive growth—particularly from the hybrid variety—may require active management to maintain open waterways and prevent obstructions.