What is Duckweed?

Overview

Physical Characteristics

Leaves:

Clusters of 2-5+
Round or egg-shaped
Slightly curving

Flowers:

2-3 flowers

Fruit:

Bladder-like
Slightly winged

Seeds:

Smooth with a spongy outer layer

Roots:

3-11 nerves

Where Does it Grow?

USDA, NRCS. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov,). National Plant Data Team, Greensboro, NC 27401-4901 USA.

Duckweed can be found in ponds, lakes and streams.

Is it invasive?

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.

Pros and Cons of Duckweed

Submerged portions of all aquatic plants provide habitats for many micro and macro invertebrates. These invertebrates in turn are used as food by fish and other wildlife species (e.g. amphibians, reptiles, ducks, etc.). After aquatic plants die, their decomposition by bacteria and fungi provides food (called “detritus”) for many aquatic invertebrates.