Lesser duckweed

Lesser duckweed, scientific name Lemna minor, is the most common and well-known type of duckweed in Europe. It is found mainly in the northern hemisphere (North America, Europe, Asia). It grows in abundance on the surface of stagnant or slow-flowing nutrient-rich water bodies, such as ponds, lakes, swamps. Growing up, they can form a floating “carpet” several centimeters thick and in a short time can fill the entire surface of small reservoirs. In some regions it is considered a weed.

Outwardly, it resembles small green plates, fused in three pieces, elliptical or rounded in shape, 3–5 mm long. It is worth noting that these plates are not leaves, duckweed does not have them, but this is a modified shoot. The root is one in the form of a thin thread hanging from the plates. The interlacing of the roots allows the plants to stay close.

It is used for decorative purposes, as well as a means of shading. It is recommended to periodically remove part of the plants to prevent overgrowth of the surface, which in turn can lead to disruption of gas exchange at the water / air interface. In addition, some species of fish use duckweed as a food source. When placed in an aquarium, it does not require the creation of special conditions, it can grow in a wide range of temperatures, light levels and hydrochemical parameters.