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Wolffia cylindracea Hegelm.

Wolffia cylindracea Hegelm. is one of the smallest free-floating aquatic flowering plants in the Araceae family. Its minute, cylindrical body and rapid vegetative reproduction make it unique among duckweeds.

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Wolffia cylindracea Hegelm.
  • Common Name: Cylindrical Watermeal (noteworthy synonyms may appear in older botanical texts)

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to tropical and subtropical freshwater habitats
  • Features: Exceptionally small size and high protein content

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Wolffia
  • Botanical Background: Named by Hegelm., Wolffia cylindracea has intrigued botanists for its extreme size reduction and unique adaptation as an aquatic flowering plant.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: It is native to tropical and subtropical regions across Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
  • Environment: This plant thrives in still or slow-moving freshwater environments with abundant sunlight, moderate to high humidity, and nutrient-rich water.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • The plant’s body itself functions as a leaf

  • Presents as a small, simple, cylindrical structure

  • Minimal differentiation

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Due to its diminutive size, flowering is rare

  • Flowers are inconspicuous and self-pollinating

Growth Habit

  • Entirely aquatic and free-floating

  • Lacks extensive root systems

  • Reproduces rapidly via vegetative means

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Prefers bright, indirect light

  • Can also thrive in full sun if water temperatures remain moderate

Watering & Humidity

  • Requires constant immersion in clean, dechlorinated water

  • Benefits from stable, high-humidity conditions

Soil & Potting Mix

  • Typically cultivated in shallow aquatic trays

  • Not grown in traditional soil-based media

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Optimal growth between 20–30°C

  • Moderate applications of balanced aquatic fertilizers support rapid vegetative propagation

Propagation Methods

Division

  • Propagates primarily through vegetative reproduction by budding and fragmentation

  • Division occurs naturally under favorable conditions

Stem Cuttings (if applicable)

  • Not typically used due to the plant’s tiny, simple structure

  • Propagation by cuttings is generally not applicable for this species

Seeds

  • Seed production is infrequent

  • Sexual reproduction occurs rarely due to the plant’s minute size

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Fungal growth or algal blooms may develop in stagnant water

  • These conditions can negatively impact plant health

Treatment Recommendations

  • Maintain good water circulation and cleanliness

  • Use aquatic-safe fungicides or algae control methods when needed

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Recognized as one of the smallest flowering plants on Earth

  • Offers potential as a sustainable, high-protein food source

  • Acts as a natural bioindicator for monitoring water quality

  • Valued by enthusiasts for its unique morphology and rapid growth in aquatic setups

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • Although not currently endangered, natural populations are sensitive to water pollution and habitat disturbance

Market Availability

  • Available through specialized aquatic plant markets and research supply outlets

  • Valued for both scientific study and ornamental use

References & Resources

Further Reading

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