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least duckweed
Scientific Name: Lemna minuta
Family: Lemnaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Lemna minuta: Least Duckweed
Lemna minuta, commonly known as least duckweed, is a tiny aquatic plant that belongs to the Araceae (Arum) family, also known as the Calla-lily family. It's noted as the smallest species within the Lemna genus.
Considerations for Pets
- Least duckweed is often found in ponds and slow-moving water bodies, which may be habitats accessible to pets.
- The plant is small, typically about 2mm across, and could potentially be ingested by pets drinking from or interacting with affected water sources.
Considerations for Children
- Least duckweed is a tiny floating plant commonly found in ponds, canals, and slow reaches of rivers.
- Its small size (1-2.5 mm, elliptical) could make it attractive or intriguing to young children, potentially leading to handling or ingestion.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Lemna minuta Kunth
- Common Name: Least Duckweed
- Family: Araceae (Arum/Calla-lily Family)
- Rank: Species
- Synonyms: Lemna valdiviana var. (mentioned, but not explicitly stated as a synonym)
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to parts of the Americas.
- Found floating in large quantities in lowland ponds, canals, and the slower reaches of rivers.
- Has spread to other regions, including Ireland and France, and is considered newly established in Britain.
- Grows in freshwater habitats, up to an altitude of 7000 feet.
- Reaches the northern edge of its range on Martha's Vineyard Island in Massachusetts.
Ecological Role
- Considered an invasive species in some regions.
- Its rapid growth can lead to dense mats that block sunlight in ponds and other water bodies.
Morphological Characteristics
- A tiny aquatic plant, the smallest of the duckweeds.
- Size: Approximately 2mm across. Some species of duckweed has fronds of 2 mm or less in diameter.
- Has very short roots, similar to Lemna minor.
- Forms a floating perennial.
- Fronds are described as elliptical.
Quirky Facts
- Least duckweed got into Ireland from North America, possibly arriving with products for home aquariums, but the exact method is unknown.
- Duckweeds, including Lemna minuta, can double their mass in less than two days under ideal conditions.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Mentioned as potential feed for pigs.
- Can infest ponds where fish live, potentially reducing sunlight penetration.
Further Information
- Discover Life: Provides information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Lemna minuta.
- IUCN Red List: Common duckweed (likely referencing other species) is classified as Least Concern.