Contents
Description
Enydra is a genus of aquatic plants that belong to the family Asteraceae. It is a small genus that consists of only one species, Enydra fluctuans. Also known as “salvinia weed,” Enydra fluctuans is a floating plant that is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is commonly found in freshwater habitats such as lakes, rivers, ponds, and swamps.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Enydra |
Appearance
Enydra fluctuans is a small floating plant that can grow up to 30 cm in length. It has a stem that is about 2-3 mm thick and has several branches. The leaves of Enydra are flat and oval-shaped, with a length of up to 2 cm. The leaves are arranged in pairs along the stem and are covered in tiny hairs. The plant also produces small yellow flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
Enydra fluctuans is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires little care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: Enydra fluctuans is an aquatic plant that requires a constant supply of water. Make sure to keep the water clean and free from any pollutants.- Fertilization: Enydra fluctuans does not require fertilization as it obtains all its nutrients from the water.- Soil: Enydra fluctuans does not require soil as it floats on the surface of the water.- Sunlight: Enydra fluctuans requires moderate to bright light to grow and thrive.- Hardiness Zones: Enydra fluctuans can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Enydra fluctuans is generally a healthy plant that is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:- Algae: If the water is not properly maintained, algae can grow on the plant and interfere with its growth.- Snails: Snails can feed on the plant and cause damage to its leaves.- Fungal infections: Fungal infections can occur if the plant is exposed to stagnant water or high humidity levels.
Habitat
Enydra fluctuans is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas. It is commonly found in freshwater habitats such as lakes, rivers, ponds, and swamps. The plant prefers slow-moving water with low to moderate levels of nutrients.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Enydra fluctuans be grown in a fish tank?
A: Yes, Enydra fluctuans can be grown in a fish tank as it is an aquatic plant that requires a constant supply of water.
Q: How fast does Enydra fluctuans grow?
A: Enydra fluctuans can grow relatively quickly, with new leaves appearing every few days.
Q: Can Enydra fluctuans be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, Enydra fluctuans can be grown outdoors in hardiness zones 9-11.
Q: How can I propagate Enydra fluctuans?
A: Enydra fluctuans can be propagated by dividing the plant at the roots and replanting the divisions.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Enydra:- Azolla- Salvinia- Water hyacinth- Water lettuce
References
– “Enydra Fluctuans.” Aquatic Invasive Species of Florida. University of Florida, n.d. Web. 21 July 2021.- “Enydra Fluctuans.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 21 July 2021.- “Enydra Fluctuans.” The Plant List. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 21 July 2021.
