How Long Can Aquatic Plants Stay Out of Water

Aquatic plants are plants that grow in water or in an environment that is at least periodically saturated with water. These plants can be found in freshwater and saltwater habitats, and they provide numerous benefits to aquatic ecosystems. However, what happens to these plants when they are taken out of the water?

The Effects of Being Out of Water

When aquatic plants are taken out of the water, they are exposed to air for the first time in a while. This exposure can have detrimental effects on the plants. After being out of the water for a short period, the plants will begin to wilt, and their leaves will start to curl inwards. The longer they are out of the water, the more pronounced these effects will become.

In addition to wilting and leaf curling, being out of the water can cause damage to the root systems of aquatic plants. When the roots dry out, they may become brittle and break easily, making it difficult for the plants to absorb nutrients and water once they are returned to the water.

How Long They Can Stay Out of Water

The length of time aquatic plants can stay out of water largely depends on the species of plant and the environmental conditions they are exposed to. In general, most aquatic plants can survive out of water for a few hours, but prolonged exposure can be fatal.

Some plants are more tolerant of being out of the water than others. For example, some water lilies (Nymphaea spp.) can survive out of water for up to six hours in humid conditions. Other plants, such as duckweed (Lemna spp.), can only survive for a few minutes outside of the water.

The temperature and humidity of the environment also play a role in how long aquatic plants can survive out of water. In hot and dry conditions, the plants will wilt and dry out much faster than in cool and humid conditions.

What to Do If You Need to Take Aquatic Plants Out of Water

If you need to take aquatic plants out of water for any reason, it is essential to minimize the time they spend out of the water as much as possible. If you plan to transport the plants over a long distance, you can wrap the roots in wet paper towels or moist sphagnum moss to help keep them hydrated.

If the plants have been out of the water for an extended period and have wilted significantly, you can try to revive them by placing them in a bucket of cool water for a few hours. However, if the plants have been out of the water for too long and are beyond repair, it may be best to discard them.

Conclusion

Aquatic plants are essential components of aquatic ecosystems, providing numerous benefits to the environment. However, when taken out of the water, they can quickly deteriorate and suffer significant damage. The length of time aquatic plants can survive out of water varies by species and environmental conditions, but in general, it is best to minimize the time they spend out of the water as much as possible to ensure their survival.