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Wolffia microscopica (Griff.) Kurz

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Wolffia microscopica (Griff.) Kurz
  • Common Name: Watermeal (historical synonyms appear in older botanical texts)

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to Asia
  • Features: Microscopic in size, reproduces rapidly, and floats freely on still freshwater surfaces

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Wolffia
  • Botanical Background: Initially described by Griffith and later revised by Kurz, this species has intrigued botanists due to its unusual size and efficient vegetative reproduction.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: It is native to tropical regions of South and Southeast Asia where freshwater bodies are abundant.
  • Environment: The species naturally thrives in nutrient-rich, still or slow-moving waters under humid and stable tropical conditions.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Lacks traditional leaves; structure is a single, green, oval frond

  • Typically measures less than 1 mm in size

  • Performs photosynthesis and buoyancy functions

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Highly reduced and inconspicuous flowering structures

  • Lacks a prominent spathe

  • Pollination occurs primarily through water movement

Growth Habit

  • Entirely aquatic and freely floating

  • Reproduces mainly through rapid vegetative budding

  • No soil-based structure or support required


Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Flourishes in bright, indirect sunlight

  • Avoids direct sun to prevent overheating

Watering & Humidity

  • Requires a stable aquatic environment with clean, nutrient-rich water

  • Regular water maintenance ensures optimal growth and prevents stagnation

Soil & Potting Mix

  • Does not require soil

  • Best cultivated in controlled aquatic setups or water gardens

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Grows best in temperatures between 22–30°C (72–86°F)

  • Needs minimal fertilization; diluted aquatic fertilizer can support growth if needed

Propagation Methods

Division

  • Propagates rapidly through vegetative budding

  • Budding allows for fast population growth without specialized tools


Stem Cuttings (if applicable)

  • Not applicable due to absence of stems or nodes

Seeds

  • Can produce seeds, but seed-based propagation is rare in cultivation

  • Vegetative reproduction remains the preferred and most efficient method

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • May be affected by waterborne pathogens such as fungi or bacteria

  • Algae overgrowth can occur in nutrient-rich or stagnant water conditions

Treatment Recommendations

  • Maintain clean, well-aerated water with regular changes

  • Control nutrient input to avoid excess algae

  • Use mild aquatic-safe treatments if fungal or bacterial problems arise

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Recognized for its microscopic size, one of the smallest flowering plants

  • Functions as a primary producer and vital food source in aquatic ecosystems

  • Helps filter excess nutrients and improve water quality in aquariums

  • Valued by aquarists for maintaining ecological balance in aquatic displays

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • Not currently considered endangered

  • Robust wild populations supported by rapid vegetative reproduction

Market Availability

  • Commonly available for aquaculture and scientific research

  • Valued in plant biology studies and aquatic ecosystem modeling

References & Resources

Further Reading

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