Aquatic Plants & Algae Apr 2026

Most closely related to land plants, these are common in freshwater. They range from the "pond scum" seen on surfaces to complex branched structures.

These are rooted in the bottom, but their leaves float on the surface. Water lilies are the classic example, utilizing the air-water interface for maximum sunlight. Aquatic Plants & Algae

Algae are a diverse group of photosynthetic organisms that lack true roots, stems, or leaves. They range from microscopic single-celled organisms (phytoplankton) to massive, multicellular structures like giant kelp. Unlike plants, algae absorb nutrients directly from the water through all parts of their body. Classification of Aquatic Plants Most closely related to land plants, these are