Onderwaterplanten

Onderwaterplanten, also known as aquatic plants, are plants that live in bodies of water. They are diverse and can be found in freshwater, brackish water, and saltwater environments. These plants play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems by producing oxygen, providing habitat and food for aquatic life, and helping to filter water.

There are several categories of underwaterplants. Submerged plants live entirely underwater, with their leaves and stems fully immersed. Examples include Elodea and various species of pondweed. Floating plants have leaves that float on the surface of the water, while their roots may be anchored in the substrate or free-floating. Water lilies and duckweed are common examples. Emergent plants, also known as marginal plants, have their roots in the waterlogged soil at the edge of a water body, with their stems and leaves growing above the water surface. Cattails and irises are typical emergent plants.

The adaptations of underwaterplants are remarkable. Many have flexible stems to withstand water currents, while others have specialized tissues for gas exchange. Submerged plants often have finely divided leaves to maximize surface area for nutrient and gas absorption. The presence and diversity of underwaterplants are indicators of water quality, with certain species thriving only in clean, healthy aquatic environments. They are also popular in aquariums and water gardens for their aesthetic appeal and their contribution to a balanced aquatic environment.