Lemna minor
Kyle Hoagland Common Duckweed, also
known as Lesser Duckweed, is a common floating plant found
in ponds, marshes,
lakes, and quiet streams. It is one of the smallest
flowering plants in the world. Common Duckweed is usually
seen in thick mats, covering the surface of the water, often
along with other species of duckweeds. Duckweed does not have
stems or leaves. It has a round, slightly oval-shaped body,
called a "frond." A small root-like structure, known as a
"rootlet," hangs down from underneath. Fronds tend to grab
each other, forming the thick mats. Common Duckweed fronds
are usually pale green, but can be a reddish-purple, and are
no bigger than 10 millimeters. USDA, NRCS,
1997 Common Duckweed blooms in
July and August, with microscopic flowers in tiny pouches.
Tiny fruits are oval-shaped. Duckweed spreads rapidly,
especially in water containing high levels of nitrogen and
phosphates (types of nutrients). Common Duckweed
is a food source for many birds and fish,
especially ducks, as its name would
suggest. Duckweed also
provides shelter
and protection for aquatic
(water) animals, such as frogs, snakes, fish,
insects, crustaceans,
and others.
Relationships in Nature:
Animals
Using as Food Source Animals
Using as Shelter Associations
With Other Plants
Relationship to Humans:
Common Duckweed is very beneficial to humans as a solution to water pollution. Sewage and animal wastes, especially from farming, pollute water with too much nitrogen and phosphates.
Duckweed grows quickly by using these up, taking them out of the water. Animals then eat up the duckweed.
Common Duckweed is also being used as animal feed for cows, pigs, chickens, and ducks.
