Aquatic Plants

I. Adaptations A. Aquatic and wetland plants do not belong to any one particular plant family. B. Individuals plants within families have acquired similar special adaptations allowing survival in aquatic environments. C. Specific Adaptations 1. The most common adaptation is large spaces or channels running through the leaves, stems and/or roots.

a. Air channels allow gas exchange between the parts of the plants still submerged. b. Example: roots under water and leaves above the water surface 2. Some species possess floating leaves or leaves divided into deep, narrow segments. D.Aquatic plants completely adapted for aquatic life grow only in water or in soil saturated with water. 1. A few aquatic plants can survive in shallow brackish water

2. Several species of seagrass are found Texas estuaries and bays. a. Important in the estuarine food chain b. Decomposing seagrass leaves provide nutrients for small animals like crabs, fish and shrimp. c. The leaves protective cover for small animals d. A food source for many waterfowl

E. Is seaweed an aquatic plant? 1. No. Seaweed is a large multicellular algae, lacking vascular tissue. 2. Giant kelp confuses people because of it size