Spirodela punctata
Non-Native
Illustration courtesy of University of Florida/IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants. Used with permission.
What is Dotted Duckweed?
Physical Characteristics
- Grow in clusters
Leaves:
- Usually 2 leaves per plant
- Shoe-shaped
- Dotted texture
Roots:
- 2-5 roots falling from each leaf
Where Does it Grow?
USDA, NRCS. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov). National Plant Data Team, Greensboro, NC 27401-4901 USA.
Non-Native
Dotted duckweed can be found in rivers, ponds and lakes.
Is it Invasive?
Dotted duckweed can be an aggressive invader of ponds and are often found mixed in with other duckweeds, mosquito fern, and/or watermeal. If colonies cover the surface of the water, then oxygen depletion and fish kills can occur. These plants should be controlled before they cover the entire surface of the pond.
This is a non-native plant that should not be grown as it is invasive and illegal to possess or transport this species in Texas. Please report sightings to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department at (512) 389-4800.