TROPICAL AQUARIUM FISHES 



195 



the new plants springing directly out of the parent leaves, as is shown in 

 Figure 148. Ordinarily the plants are about 6 inches in diameter and 

 are of very pleasing appearance. Native to the Tropics around the world. 



WATER LETTUCE 



Pistia stratiotcs 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 



Fig. 149. Water Lettuce (Reduced one-quarter) 



diameter of about 4 inches or more and is decidedly pretty. The roots 

 sometimes attain a length of 18 inches, but they are not sufficiently dense 

 to use for spawning purposes. Multiplies rapidly in a congenial 

 environment. 



WATER CHESTNUT 



Probably obtaining its popular name from the serrated edges of the 

 leaves somewhat resembling those of the Chestnut tree, Trapa uatans 

 forms one of the pleasing varieties among floating aquatics. It is an 

 annual doing well in exposed out-door positions. Xew plants are pro- 



