Lemna gibba L.

• Genus: Lemnoideae
• Botanical Background: Described by Carl Linnaeus and has since been the subject of studies that highlight its simplicity and ecological importance in aquatic environments.

• Geographical Range: Native to a wide range of regions; found in freshwater bodies across temperate and tropical zones globally.
• Environment: Thrives in calm, nutrient-rich waters with moderate temperatures. Favors areas with high light availability and stable water conditions, making it common in ponds, ditches, and slow-moving streams.

Leaves

• Small, oval-shaped fronds that are green and slightly convex

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Flowering is rare in natural conditions due to its rapid asexual reproduction
• Flowers are inconspicuous and short-lived

Growth Habit

• Entirely aquatic, free-floating species
• Propagates primarily through budding, forming dense mats on the water surface

Light Requirements

• Grows best in bright, indirect sunlight
• Can tolerate full sun in many natural conditions

Watering & Humidity

• Requires a consistently waterlogged environment with good water quality and minimal pollutants

Soil & Potting Mix

• Not applicable in traditional soil
• Tpically maintained in water or specialized aquatic plant media

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Prefers moderate water temperatures between 15 °C and 30 °C
• Occasional supplementation with diluted aquatic fertilizers

Division and Cuttings

• Reproduces mainly by vegetative division. Individual fronds detach and form new colonies, making it simple to propagate

Seeds

• Sexual reproduction is uncommon; seeds are rarely produced and are not typically used for propagation

Typical Issues

• Can be affected by algae overgrowth and occasional waterborne pathogens

Treatment Recommendations

• Improving water circulation and periodic water changes
• For severe cases, biological controls or gentle organic treatments can be considered

• Rapid clonal expansion makes it useful for bioremediation and wastewater treatment
• Plays an important role in providing habitat and food for aquatic invertebrates

• Delicate, unobtrusive appearance in aquariums and water gardens
• Used as a model organism in scientific studies

Wild Population Status

• Widely distributed and not currently subject to significant conservation concerns

Market Availability

• Commonly available from aquatic plant suppliers
• Frequently used in research and hobbyist aquatic setups