Introduction

Plants growing on water have been cultivated since ancient times and often referred to as hydroponic plants. The type of plant that can be grown on water has increased significantly, thanks to advancements in technology and plant breeding programs. This article explores the various types of plants that can be grown on water and their implications on agriculture, horticulture, and the environment.

Submerged aquatic plants

Submerged aquatic plants are plants that grow entirely below the water surface. These plants obtain their nutrients and oxygen directly from the water. Examples of submerged aquatic plants include waterweed, coontails, and bladderworts. Submerged aquatic plants play a crucial role in the ecosystem by providing food and shelter to aquatic animals and helping to purify water bodies. These plants have also been used in horticulture to provide an aesthetically pleasing display in indoor water gardens.

Floating aquatic plants

Floating aquatic plants are plants that live on the surface of the water, with their roots submerged in water. These plants obtain nutrients and oxygen from the water and sunlight through their leaves. Examples of floating aquatic plants include water lily, water hyacinth, and floating heart. Floating aquatic plants also play an important role in purifying water and providing a habitat for aquatic animals. Interestingly, water hyacinth is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments including respiratory disorders and digestive problems.

Emergent plants

Emergent plants are plants that grow along the water's edge, with their roots submerged in water and their foliage above water. Examples of emergent plants include cattail, bulrush, and common reed. These plants play a critical role in the ecosystem by providing a habitat for aquatic organisms and reducing soil erosion along water bodies. Emergent plants have also been used in gardening to provide an attractive vertical element in water gardens.

Aquatic carnivorous plants

Aquatic carnivorous plants are a unique group of plants that grow in water and capture insects or other small animals to supplement their nutrient intake. Examples of aquatic carnivorous plants include bladderworts, water wheel, and Venus flytrap. These plants are mostly found in nutrient-poor environments where other plants struggle to survive. Aquatic carnivorous plants have also been used in horticulture and aquariums for their unique appearance and feeding habits.

Conclusion

The type of plant that can be grown on water is diverse, spanning from submerged aquatic plants to aquatic carnivorous plants. These plants play a critical role in the ecosystem by providing food, shelter, and purifying water. In horticulture, plants grown on water have been used to create visually enticing water gardens and aquariums. As technology and breeding programs improve, it is essential to explore the potential of these plants in agriculture and their role in addressing environmental challenges such as water pollution and climate change.