Menu
Log in
site_logo

Lemna tenera Kurz

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Lemna tenera Kurz
  • Common Name: Commonly referred to as a type of duckweed

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to parts of Asia
  • Features: Delicate, heart-shaped fronds that float on still waters and exhibit an impressive rate of clonal reproduction

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Lemna
  • Botanical Background: Described by Kurz, this species has been the subject of ecological and botanical studies, particularly in relation to its rapid propagation and utility in bioremediation research.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Primarily found in freshwater bodies across tropical and subtropical regions of Asia.
  • Environment: Thrives in nutrient-rich, still or slow-moving waters, often in warm climates with high humidity.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Tiny, oval to heart-shaped fronds
  • Smooth texture and a uniform green coloration

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Flowering is rare
  • Relies on asexual reproduction, with minimal floral structures observed when they occur

Growth Habit

  • Forms dense mats on water bodies
  • Reproduces predominantly through budding from a basal rosette, rather than by producing tubers or climbing

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Prefers bright, indirect light, which supports its photosynthetic efficiency without causing overheating

Watering & Humidity

  • Requires a stable water environment that remains clean and well-aerated
  • Regular water changes help maintain optimal growth conditions

Soil & Potting Mix

  • Typically occurs in shallow ponds or controlled aquatic setups rather than in traditional soil-based containers

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Thrives in warm temperatures
  • Periodic supplementation with diluted aquatic fertilizers can boost its growth while preventing nutrient deficiencies

Propagation Methods

Division and Cuttings

  • Propagates mainly through vegetative budding, where new fronds separate naturally from the parent plant to form dense colonies


Seeds

  • Seed formation is infrequent and not the primary method of propagation

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Susceptible to fungal infections and algal overgrowth

Treatment Recommendations

  • Ensuring clean water conditions and balanced nutrient levels
  • Improving water quality
  • If necessary, applying mild organic antifungals

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Rapid clonal growth and efficient nutrient uptake make it an important species for ecological studies and potential applications in wastewater treatment and bioenergy production.
  • Unique, minimalistic structure and ease of propagation appeal to aquatic enthusiasts and researchers interested in sustainable water management.

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • Does not face significant conservation threats; however, local populations may be impacted by water pollution and habitat disruption.

Market Availability

  • Readily available for scientific research and environmental applications 
  • Though it is less common in the conventional horticultural market

References & Resources

Further Reading

Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software
Document