reproduction
It
reproduces mainly vegetatively by division. As more leaves grow, the
plants divide and become separate individuals. Rarely does the plant
reproduce sexually. Flowers are rarely produced (usually in winter) and
measure about 1 mm in diameter and are white in colour.
dispersal
Birds
are important in dispersing L. minor to new sites. The sticky root
enables the plant to adhere to the plumage or feet of birds and can
thereby colonise new ponds.
benefits
Lemna
minor has been shown to remove heavy metals like lead, copper, zinc and
arsenic very efficiently from waters with non-lethal concentrations.
Harvested plants from uncontaminated waters can be used as soil
amendment, compost material or protein source for livestock.