Freshwater Plants
These are all true plants. In freshwater, much of the algal growth is in the form of slimes that grow on rocks, plants, and other surfaces, and of course microscopic phytoplankton. While freshwater algae is an important part of the ecosystem, it is not very remarkable to the typical scuba diver.
Spirodela polyrhiza
Size: to 0.1"
Habitat: floating free at surface
Notes: Among the smallest seed plants; important food for many waterfowl.
More: Great Duckweed ...
Nuphar advena
Size: to 9" (leaves)
Habitat: rooted in muddy bottoms with leaves floating at the surface
Yellow is the most common color, but you may also find white and pink.
More: Yellow Water Lily ...
