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Description
Wolffia Brasiliensis, also known as the Brazilian watermeal or simply water meal, is the world’s smallest flowering plant. It belongs to the duckweed family and is native to South America, but can now be found in other parts of the world as well. This aquatic plant is so tiny that it is often mistaken for algae or pond scum. It is commonly found in still or slow-moving bodies of freshwater, such as ponds, lakes, and marshes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Lemnaceae |
| Genus | Wolffia |
Appearance
As mentioned earlier, Wolffia Brasiliensis is incredibly small. In fact, it is so small that it can fit on the tip of a needle. It has no leaves, stems or roots, and is oval-shaped, measuring only 0.6 to 1.5 mm long and 0.3 to 1.0 mm wide. The plant’s color ranges from light green to olive green. It reproduces through budding, where a new plant grows from the parent plant.
Care Guide
Wolffia Brasiliensis is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips:- Water: Keep the water clean and free of debris. Change the water every two weeks to prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria.- Fertilization: The plant does not require any fertilization.- Soil: The plant does not require soil.- Sunlight: Wolffia Brasiliensis requires full sun to grow and thrive.- Hardiness Zones: It can grow in zones 4 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Wolffia Brasiliensis is not often affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:- Algae blooms: These can occur when there is an excess of nutrients in the water.- Toxic chemicals: The plant is sensitive to chemicals, such as herbicides and pesticides, which can cause damage or death.
Habitat
Wolffia Brasiliensis is commonly found in freshwater habitats, such as ponds, lakes, and marshes. It can also be found in rice paddies and other agricultural waterways. It prefers still or slow-moving water and is often found in areas with full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Wolffia Brasiliensis an invasive species?
A: While the plant is not considered invasive, it can grow rapidly and cover large areas of water, which can cause issues with water flow and oxygen levels.
Q: Can Wolffia Brasiliensis be kept in an aquarium?
A: Yes, it can be kept in an aquarium as long as the water is clean and free of toxins.
Q: Is Wolffia Brasiliensis edible?
A: Yes, it is edible and is often used in Southeast Asian cuisine.
Q: Can Wolffia Brasiliensis be used for biofuel?
A: Yes, it has been studied as a potential source of biofuel due to its high oil content.
Related Plants
– Wolffia Angusta- Wolffia Arrhiza- Lemna Minor- Spirodela Polyrhiza
References
– “Wolffia Brasiliensis.” Aquatic Plant Central, https://www.aquaticplantcentral.com/wiki/Wolffia_brasiliensis.- “Wolffia Brasiliensis.” World of Flowering Plants, https://worldoffloweringplants.com/wolffia-brasiliensis-brazilian-watermeal/.
