Water lettuce
| Title | Info |
|---|---|
| Common name | Water lettuce |
| Scientific name | Pistia stratiotes |
| Taxonomic group | Araceae |
| Source | Dan L. Perlman |
| Human impacts | Invasive species |
| Conservation | Invasive species |
| Lessons | Invasive species |
Water lettuce. This aquatic perennial plant is invasive in temperate regions worldwide. Water lettuce can form dense floating mats that prevent navigation, reduce dissolved oxygen in the water, block sunlight, and provide mosquito breeding habitat. It is known to have been present in Florida as early as 1765, but may have originated in Africa. Despite its invasive qualities, the plant is commonly sold for use in aquaria.
