Aquatic Plants & Algae -

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.

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

Primarily marine, these algae contain pigments that allow them to photosynthesize in deeper, dimmer waters where blue light penetrates. They range from the "pond scum" seen on

Aquatic plants are generally categorized by their growth habit and how they interact with the water column:

These are rooted in the soil underwater, but their upper portions—leaves and flowers—grow above the surface. Common examples include cattails and bulrushes.