58 



AQUATIC PLANTS 



appearance when in flower, there is no reason why it should not be better 

 known. As will be noted in illustration, it propagates from runners, but 

 the seeds also germinate under favorable conditions. The plant is of 

 European introduction. 



WATER LETTUCE 



Pistia stratiotes is a floating plant with fluted, light-green, velvety 

 leaves, forming a rosette. It likes plenty of heat, a moist atmosphere 

 and protection from the sun. Under favorable conditions it grows to 

 a diameter of about four inches or more and is very attractive indeed. 



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Fig. 47. Water Lettuce (Two-thirds size) 



The roots sometimes attain a length of eighteen inches, but they are not 

 sufficiently dense to use for spawning purposes. Multiplies rapidly in a 

 congenial environment, but degenerates and dies out in a dry atmosphere. 

 Obtainable from the larger dealers in aquatic plants. 



WATER FERN 



Not looking particularly fern-like, the Water Fern, Ceratopteris 

 thalictroides, is the only truly aquatic species of the fern family. It is 

 of comparatively recent introduction into the aquarium and indoor pool, 

 and is more suited to the latter. In a partially shaded position in the 

 greenhouse it grows into floating masses a foot or more in diameter, 



