Aquatic Plants & Algae May 2026

These plants are not attached to the bottom at all. They drift with the current, absorbing nutrients directly through roots hanging in the water. Examples include duckweed and water hyacinth. The World of Algae

These are rooted in the soil underwater, but their upper portions—leaves and flowers—grow above the surface. Common examples include cattails and bulrushes. Aquatic Plants & Algae

Algae are a diverse group of photosynthetic organisms that lack true roots, stems, or leaves. They range from microscopic single-celled organisms (phytoplankton) to massive, multicellular structures like giant kelp. Unlike plants, algae absorb nutrients directly from the water through all parts of their body. Classification of Aquatic Plants These plants are not attached to the bottom at all

Most closely related to land plants, these are common in freshwater. They range from the "pond scum" seen on surfaces to complex branched structures. The World of Algae These are rooted in

Dense "beds" of plants and kelp forests provide nurseries for young fish and hiding spots from predators.