Which Freshwater Plants Feed from Water Column

Freshwater plants are a crucial part of the ecosystem, providing oxygen, shelter, and food for aquatic animals. They also help in maintaining water quality by absorbing excess nutrients, preventing algae blooms and purifying water. Aquatic plants can be divided into two categories - those that feed from the substrate (roots anchored in the soil or gravel) and those that feed from the water column (roots suspended in water). In this article, we will focus on freshwater plants that feed from the water column.

1. Water Lilies (Nymphaea)

Water lilies are a popular choice for garden ponds and lakes. They grow from rhizomes that are anchored in the soil at the bottom of the water body. The leaves and flowers of the water lily float on the surface of the water while the roots hang suspended in the water column. Water lilies feed from the water column by absorbing nutrients and minerals through their roots. These nutrients may include nitrates, phosphates, and potassium. Water lilies are known to be heavy feeders and require a nutrient-rich environment to thrive.

2. Duckweeds (Lemnaceae)

Duckweeds are tiny floating plants that are found in freshwater ponds, lakes, and marshes. They are simple plants with no true roots, stems or leaves. They feed from the water column by absorbing nutrients and minerals through their fronds. Duckweeds are known to be efficient at absorbing nutrients, which makes them an excellent biological filter for aquariums and ponds. They are often used to help control nitrate and phosphate levels in aquariums and fish tanks.

3. Hornwort (Ceratophyllum)

Hornwort is a submerged freshwater plant that grows in cool and temperate waters around the world. It has no true roots but is anchored to the substrate by thin, hair-like structures called rhizoids. Hornwort feeds from the water column by absorbing nutrients and minerals through its leaves and stem. It is known to be a fast-growing plant and can absorb large amounts of nutrients from the water column. Hornwort is an excellent plant for aquariums as it provides shelter for fish and other aquatic animals.

4. Water Sprite (Ceratopteris)

Water sprite is another popular freshwater plant that feeds from the water column. It is a fast-growing plant and can easily adapt to different water conditions. Water sprite has fine, feathery leaves that can grow up to 30 cm in length. It feeds from the water column by absorbing nutrients and minerals through its leaves and roots. Water sprite is known to be a good nutrient absorber and can help control algae growth in aquariums and ponds.

5. Anacharis (Egeria)

Anacharis, also known as waterweed, is a submerged freshwater plant that grows in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. It has long, narrow leaves that grow in whorls or clusters along the stem. Anacharis feeds from the water column by absorbing nutrients and minerals through its stem and leaves. It is an efficient plant for filtering nutrients and can help improve water quality in aquariums and ponds. Anacharis is also a popular plant for aquascaping because of its attractive appearance.

Conclusion

Freshwater plants that feed from the water column play a crucial role in maintaining water quality and providing shelter and food for aquatic animals. These plants can help control algae growth, improve water quality, and provide a natural habitat for fish and other aquatic animals. Water lilies, duckweeds, hornwort, water sprite, and anacharis are just a few examples of freshwater plants that feed from the water column.