Menu
Log in
site_logo

Wolffiella caudata Landolt

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Wolffiella caudata Landolt
  • Common Name: No widely recognized common names

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to calm freshwater bodies
  • Features: Diminutive size and distinctive caudate tip

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Wolffiella
  • Botanical Background: Described by the botanist Landolt, who made significant contributions to aquatic plant research. Its unique morphology continues to interest both researchers and aquatic plant enthusiasts

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Found in temperate regions, this species inhabits slow-moving or still water bodies such as ponds and wetlands across parts of North America and Europe
  • Environment: Flourishes in nutrient-rich, calm waters with moderate light; favors slightly acidic to neutral water and stable, warm temperatures

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Extremely small
  • Delicate, slightly elongated shape
  • Subtle tail-like extension that distinguishes this species

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Under natural conditions, flowering is rare
  • Minimal and primarily serves reproductive purposes in controlled environments

Growth Habit

  • Entirely free-floating and lacks conventional roots
  • Reproduces mainly through vegetative division, forming dense surface mats

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Bright, indirect light that mimics its natural pond environment

Watering & Humidity

  • Requires constant immersion in clean water and thrives under high humidity conditions

Soil & Potting Mix

  • No soil is needed
  • Maintained in nutrient-rich water or an aquatic substrate within shallow containers

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Optimal water temperatures range from 20 to 30 °C
  • Minimal fertilization is recommended to prevent excessive algae growth

Propagation Methods

Division and Cuttings

  • Mainly achieved through vegetative division, as new daughter fronds separate naturally from the parent colony


Seeds

  • Uncommon and less effective compared to the plant's predominant asexual reproduction

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Algal overgrowth and fungal infections

Treatment Recommendations

  • Maintaining clean water with balanced nutrients is key
  • Mild fungicides can be used if fungal issues arise, and careful monitoring helps prevent algal dominance

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Small size and rapid vegetative growth make it a valuable model in studies of plant minimalism and aquatic ecosystem dynamics
  • Not traditionally used for ornamental purposes, prized for its ecological role and is used in water purification research and experimental aquatic displays

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • No major conservation concerns for Wolffiella caudata, as it is relatively common in its natural habitats

Market Availability

  • While not widely cultivated, it is accessible through specialized aquatic plant suppliers and research institutions

References & Resources

Further Reading

Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software
Document