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{{tag>invasive, floating, low-light, easy, emersed}}
====== Water Lettuce ======

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**Invasive Species Warning** \\
This species is a known invasive pest in the Great Lakes region where it may be regulated or prohibited by U.S. and Canadian Statutes. \\ 
It is restricted in Wisconsin, but **not in Canada at this time**.
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{{:plants:water_lettuce.jpg?nolink&400 |}}
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Water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) is an aquatic plant that floats on the surface of still or slow-moving water bodies, such as ponds, lakes, and rivers. It has soft, velvety, light green leaves that form a rosette shape, resembling a head of lettuce, which gives it its name. 
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Though it provides habitat for certain wildlife, water lettuce is considered invasive in many regions, particularly in tropical and subtropical climates, because of its rapid growth and ability to outcompete native aquatic plants.


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**INVASIVE SPECIES INFORMATION** \\
Restricted in the State of Wisconsin and poses a threat to the ecosystems of our Great Lakes. While unrestricted in Canada, this plant (along with any other aquatic plant) should never ever be released into any natural waterway {{ :plants:stop_invasive_species.png?nolink&150|}} and excess cuttings should be disposed of properly either by trading them with your local fish store for credit or by sealing them in a plastic bag and disposing in the garbage. Keep our natural freshwater ecosystems healthy!

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==== Aquarium Benefits ====

Water Lettuce has an impressive root system, that hangs down below the waterline. This is useful for small fish or fry to hide in and be close to the surface for food. It can also diffuse the light for other species that may not like direct sunlight for 11-12 hours a day. See the **Invasive Species Information** at right if you are disposing of excess Water Lettuce.

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==== Aquarium Disadvantages ====

Water Lettuce can propagate quickly and without managing it properly, can quickly overrun a small aquarium.

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==== Caring for Water Lettuce ===

Water Lettuce thrives with very little intervention. It does rely on nutrients in the water column, so a good liquid fertilizer would help keep them healthy and strong. Make sure to keep its roots under the water for best results, and see the **Invasive Species Information** at right if you are disposing of any Water Lettuce.

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==== Quick Facts ====

|**Botanical Name**|Pistia tratiotes|
|**Origins**|Africa|
|**Full Size**|6" tall, 10" wide|
|**Ideal pH**|6.5 - 7.5|
|**Toxicity**|Toxic to people and pets|
|**Lighting Intensity**|Low|
|**Lighting Duration**|11 - 12 hrs/day|
|**Care Level**|Easy|
|**Growth Rate**|Very Fast|
|**Soil Requirements**|none, free-floating|
|**CO<sub>2</sub> Required**|No|

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