Wolffia Arrhiza

Description

Wolffia Arrhiza, also known as the rootless duckweed, is a tiny aquatic plant that belongs to the duckweed family. It is the smallest flowering plant in the world, with an average size of 0.5 to 1.5 mm. It is commonly found in still or slow-moving freshwaters, such as ponds, lakes, canals, and ditches. Wolffia Arrhiza is often confused with other duckweed species, such as Lemna Minor and Spirodela Polyrrhiza, but it can be distinguished by its size and rootlessness.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Wolffia Arrhiza is a flat, oval-shaped plant with a greenish color. It has no roots, and its leaves are reduced to a single layer of cells. The plant floats on the water surface, and it reproduces asexually by budding. The flowers of Wolffia Arrhiza are inconspicuous, and they are enclosed in a small cavity on the plant’s surface. The plant can form dense mats on the water surface, providing a habitat for various aquatic organisms.

Care Guide

Wolffia Arrhiza is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for growing and caring for this plant:

• Water: Wolffia Arrhiza prefers still or slow-moving freshwaters with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
• Fertilization: No fertilization is required for this plant.
• Soil: Since Wolffia Arrhiza is a rootless plant, it does not require soil.
• Sunlight: This plant prefers full sunlight or partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Wolffia Arrhiza can grow in hardiness zones 4 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Wolffia Arrhiza is generally not affected by pests or diseases. However, if the water in which it grows is contaminated with pollutants or toxins, the plant can absorb them and become contaminated itself. This can affect the health of aquatic organisms that feed on the plant.

Habitat

Wolffia Arrhiza is native to many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is commonly found in still or slow-moving freshwaters, such as ponds, lakes, canals, and ditches. It is often found growing alongside other aquatic plants, such as water lilies, cattails, and bulrushes. Wolffia Arrhiza plays an important role in the aquatic ecosystem by providing food and habitat for various aquatic organisms.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Wolffia Arrhiza edible?

A: Yes, Wolffia Arrhiza is edible and is used as a food source in some cultures.

Q: Can Wolffia Arrhiza be used in aquariums?

A: Yes, Wolffia Arrhiza can be used in aquariums as a floating plant.

Q: Can Wolffia Arrhiza be grown indoors?

A: Yes, Wolffia Arrhiza can be grown indoors in containers or aquariums.

Q: Is Wolffia Arrhiza invasive?

A: Wolffia Arrhiza can be invasive in some areas, as it can form dense mats on the water surface and compete with other aquatic plants for nutrients and sunlight.

Related Plants

• Lemna Minor
• Spirodela Polyrrhiza
• Salvinia Minima
• Azolla Caroliniana

References

• “Wolffia Arrhiza.” Aquaplant. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, n.d. Web. 29 Apr. 2021.
• “Wolffia Arrhiza.” World Flora Online. n.p., n.d. Web. 29 Apr. 2021.
• “Wolffia Arrhiza.” Missouri Botanical Garden. n.p., n.d. Web. 29 Apr. 2021.