Lemna minuta is a species of duckweed known by the common name least duckweed. It is the smallest Lemna species.Flora of Northern Ireland It is native to parts of the Americas, and naturalized in others; the exact native range is not known. It is found on other continents as a non-native introduction as well. The plant's distribution is ever-expanding; it has been spreading in Europe and it was described from Poland for the first time in 2007.Banaszek, A. and K. Musiał. (2009). The new kenophyte in Poland - Lemna minuta Humb., Bonpl., & Kunth . Acta Societatis Botanicorum Poloniae 78:1 69-72 In many areas it is a noxious weed, such as in Belgium.Invasive Alien Species in Belgium: Lemna minuta
This tiny plant varies in shape depending on growth conditions. In the shade it is a single green translucent oval body no more than 2.5 millimeters long, and in full sunlight it generally grows in pairs. There is a central vein usually visible under magnification and microscopy. The plant produces an ephemeral membrane-bound flower.
This duckweed grows in slow-moving, calm, and stagnant freshwater habitats. It affects the ecology of its habitat by forming mats on the water surface, reducing sunlight penetration and oxygen exchange.
References
External links Jepson Manual Treatment Lemna Comparisons and L. minuta Species Description Flora of North America