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 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 
%, AAI 
4M A AVN 
WN 
Fic. 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 natans 
forms one of the pleasing varieties among floating aquatics. It is an 
annual doing well in exposed out-door positions. New plants are pro- 
