What prehistoric plant grows in water

The world is full of fascinating flora and fauna that have evolved over millions of years. Among these ancient organisms is a unique plant that has been around since the Mesozoic Era – the dawn of the dinosaurs. This prehistoric plant is known as the water fern, or Azolla.

Azolla: An Overview

Azolla is a small aquatic fern that belongs to the family Salviniaceae. It has a delicate and intricate structure, with tiny leaves that are packed closely together to form a branching network. This network of leaves floats on the surface of still water bodies, such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers.

Azolla is a very small plant, with most species measuring only a few millimeters in length. However, despite its diminutive size, Azolla is incredibly important to the environment. It plays a critical role in maintaining the balance of carbon and nitrogen in the atmosphere, and it is used as a bio-fertilizer in rice paddies.

The History of Azolla

Notably, Azolla is one of the world's oldest plants, with fossils of the fern dating back over 70 million years. Azolla is believed to have originated in the Arctic region, before spreading to other parts of the world. It is even thought to have played a crucial role in lowering carbon dioxide levels and cooling the planet during the Eocene era about 49 million years ago.

Azolla's Unique Characteristics

Azolla has several unique features that set it apart from other plants. The plant has a symbiotic relationship with a species of blue-green algae known as Anabaena azollae. This cyanobacterium is found in special cavities in the Azolla leaves and is responsible for fixing nitrogen from the air and making it usable by the plant.

Azolla is also capable of rapid growth and reproduction. Under favorable conditions, it can double its size in just two to three days. It is thought that this speed of growth contributes to its ability to reduce carbon dioxide levels and cool the planet.

The Uses of Azolla

Azolla has been used in many different ways throughout history. In China, it has been used as a traditional medicine for centuries, and it is believed to have many health benefits. In other parts of the world, it is used as a bio-fertilizer in rice paddies and as a food source for animals.

In recent years, researchers have begun to study Azolla's potential as a biofuel. The plant has a high lipid content and can be converted into bio-oil, which can be used as a substitute for fossil fuels. This could have significant implications for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.

The Future of Azolla

Azolla is an ancient plant with a rich history and many unique characteristics. Its symbiotic relationship with blue-green algae, rapid growth rate, and ability to fix nitrogen make it a valuable resource for improving soil fertility and reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. As researchers continue to explore its potential uses, Azolla could play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of our planet.

In conclusion, Azolla is a fascinating prehistoric plant that grows in water. Its intricate structure, symbiotic relationship with blue-green algae, and ability to rapidly reproduce have made it a valuable resource throughout history. With its potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change, Azolla could play a major role in shaping the future of our planet.