Aquatic Plant Distribution

Introduction

In this lab, we explore the distribution of the aquatic plants of Lake Issaqueena. Aquatic plants, also known as hydrophytes or aquatic macrophytes, can be found in saltwater or freshwater environments. They act as sustenance and living environments for aquatic animals. In addition, they prevent ponds and lakes from eroding by providing soil stability.  Aquatic plants are generally divided into four groups for management purposes. These groups include: algae, floating plants, submerged plants, and emergent plants. For the plant distribution within our section of the lake were comprised of mainly submerged and floating plants.

        Lake Issaqueena

Methods

This lab was conducted at Lake Issaqueena, a research area apart of Clemson University’s forestry. For the mapping of the aquatic plants surrounding the lake, the class was divided into groups of twos. Each group were assigned a section of the lake, which started from the delta region to the damn region of the lake, to create a distribution map of the aquatic plants. Plant identification sheets with identifying characteristics were used to identify plants.

Results

Discussion

Totally submerged plants are considered true water plants or hydrophytes. The species Nitella sp., commonly known as Nitella are plant-like algae that are fully submerged. They are bright gr

Floating plants are not attached directly to the bottom of lakes and ponds. They differ in sizes and shapes. Many floating plants are comprised of roots that hang in the water from the floating green portions. An example of a floating plant is species Nuphar luteum, commonly known as Yellow water lily, that belongs to the Nymphaeaceae family.  This aquatic plant is among the most primitive dicotyledons. Features such as its heart-shaped leaf that extends from the spongy rhizomes that are anchored in sediment can be an identifying characteristic.  The lone, yellow flower with its protruding, lobed stigma is the best known feature. The Yellow water lily can grow in aquatic environments up to 16 inches deep. Their common habitats are lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, and bays of brackish water. They provide food and shelter for many fish and underwater insects.