Introduction

Water is a vital natural resource that sustains life on earth. It covers almost three fourths of the surface of the earth and plays a crucial role in the survival and growth of plants. In this article, we will explore the different types of plants that live in water and how they adapt to their aquatic environment.

Submerged plants

Submerged plants are the ones that grow entirely underwater. They are rooted in the muddy bottom of the water body and grow towards the surface to get access to sunlight. Submerged plants are an essential source of food and shelter for various aquatic animals like fish, snails, and insects. Examples of submerged plants are Hydrilla, Hornwort, Waterweed, and Eelgrass.

Floating plants

Floating plants are the ones that float on the surface of the water. They have adapted to live on the water surface due to their light and flexible structure. The leaves of these plants are waxy and water-repellant, which enables the plant to float. The root systems are stumpy and do not reach the bottom of the waterbody. Floating plants also provide shelter, food, and oxygen to aquatic animals. Examples of floating plants are Duckweed, Water lilies, and Lotus.

Emergent plants

Emergent plants are the ones whose roots are underwater, and the stems and leaves rise above the water surface. They grow on the shorelines of the water bodies and are often visible above the water surface. These plants have adapted to tolerate living in wet soil and shallow water. Emergent plants play a vital role in preventing soil erosion and provide shelter and food to aquatic animals. Examples of emergent plants are Cattails, Bulrush, and Reed.

The benefits of aquatic plants

Aquatic plants provide many benefits to the environment and living beings, including humans. They help in maintaining the ecological balance and improve water quality by filtering pollutants and excess nutrients. These plants also provide food and shelter to aquatic animals and birds, contributing to biodiversity. Additionally, some of these plants have medicinal properties and have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. Overall, aquatic plants play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the water bodies and the environment around them.

Conclusion

There are various types of plants that live in water, ranging from submerged to floating and emergent plants. These plants are essential for maintaining the ecological balance of water bodies and provide food, shelter, and oxygen to aquatic animals. We should take care of these plants and protect them from pollution and other human activities that can harm the aquatic ecosystem.