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Description
Lemna, also known as duckweed, is a floating aquatic plant that is part of the Araceae family. It is the world’s smallest flowering plant and is commonly found in freshwater ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. Lemna has a unique reproductive system that allows for rapid growth and colonization, making it a valuable food source for many aquatic animals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocotyledons |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Lemna |
Appearance
Lemna is a small, oval-shaped plant that measures only a few millimeters in length. It has a flattened, disc-like body with a single root that hangs below the surface of the water. The leaves of Lemna are simple and have no distinct veins. They are green in color and have a smooth texture. Lemna flowers are small and inconspicuous, with only one stamen and one pistil.
Care Guide
Water: Lemna thrives in freshwater environments and prefers still or slow-moving water. It can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, including low oxygen levels and high levels of nutrients. Fertilization: Lemna does not require fertilization as it obtains all the necessary nutrients from the water.Soil: Lemna does not grow in soil as it is a floating aquatic plant.Sunlight: Lemna prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Lemna is hardy in zones 4-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lemna is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if water conditions are poor. Additionally, Lemna can be consumed by certain herbivorous aquatic animals, such as waterfowl and fish.
Habitat
Lemna is commonly found in freshwater ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. It can also be found in wetlands and rice paddies. Lemna is native to North America but has since spread to other parts of the world, including Europe and Asia.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lemna a good plant for a backyard pond?
A: Yes, Lemna is an excellent plant for a backyard pond as it helps to control algae and provides a food source for aquatic animals.Q: Can Lemna be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Lemna can be grown indoors in a small aquarium or fish tank.Q: How fast does Lemna grow?
A: Lemna can grow rapidly, doubling its biomass in as little as two days under optimal conditions.Q: Is Lemna a good food source for humans?
A: While Lemna is edible, it is not commonly consumed by humans as it has a bland taste and is difficult to harvest in large quantities.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Araceae family include:
- Calla Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica)
- Philodendron (Philodendron spp.)
- Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
- Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii)
References
- “Lemna.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 26, 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287046&isprofile=0&pt=2>
- “Lemna Minor.” World Register of Marine Species. Accessed June 26, 2021. <http://www.marinespecies.org/aphia.php?p=taxdetails&id=160822>
- “Duckweeds.” United States Department of Agriculture. Accessed June 26, 2021. <https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detailfull/soils/health/biology/?&cid=nrcs142p2_054250>
