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Wolffia australiana (Benth.) Hartog & Plas

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Wolffia australiana (Benth.) Hartog & Plas
  • Common Name: Watermeal (informal); part of the duckweed group within aroids

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and Oceania
  • Features: Extremely small in size with rapid vegetative reproduction

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Wolffia
  • Botanical Background: First described by early botanists and later refined by Hartog and Plas, this species has drawn scientific interest for its extreme miniaturization and simplified morphology.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Found across parts of Asia and Oceania, it naturally inhabits stagnant or slow-moving freshwater bodies such as ponds and ditches.
  • Environment: Thriving in warm, nutrient-rich waters, Wolffia australiana favors conditions with abundant sunlight, moderate water movement, and a stable aquatic setting.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Tiny, bright green, oval or rounded structures
  • Float freely on the water surface; no distinct leaf blades

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Very small, inconspicuous flowers

  • Minimal development of spadix and spathe, reflecting the plant’s reduced morphology

Growth Habit

  • Entirely aquatic and free-floating

  • Propagates through rapid vegetative budding with no developed root or tuber system

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Thrives in bright, indirect light or full sun

  • Mimics natural outdoor aquatic conditions

Watering & Humidity

  • Grows best in consistently moist, clean water

  • Does not require traditional humidity control due to aquatic habitat

Soil & Potting Mix

  • Should be grown in shallow aquatic containers or outdoor ponds

  • Traditional potting mix is not suitable

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Optimal temperature: 68–86°F (20–30°C)

  • Requires little to no fertilization if water is nutrient-rich

Propagation Methods

Division

  • Propagates mainly through vegetative budding

  • New plantlets naturally separate from the parent and float independently

Stem Cuttings (if applicable)

  • Not applicable; the plant lacks stems and roots

Seeds

  • Seed production is rare and not commonly used

  • Vegetative propagation is the most efficient and reliable method

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Typically resistant to common plant pests

  • May be affected by waterborne pathogens in poor-quality or stagnant water

Treatment Recommendations

  • Maintain clean, well-aerated water to prevent disease

  • Use organic treatments or biological controls rather than chemical solutions

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Recognized as one of the smallest flowering plants

  • Commonly used in research on plant miniaturization and rapid vegetative reproduction

  • Appreciated by aquatic plant collectors for its minimalist, floating form

  • Plays a vital ecological role in freshwater ecosystems and natural water filtration

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • Not currently endangered

  • Natural habitats may be threatened by pollution and environmental degradation, so monitoring is important

Market Availability

  • Commonly available through specialized aquatic plant nurseries

  • Frequently used in scientific research due to its unique traits and accessibility

References & Resources

Further Reading

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