4-8 Hydrocharitaceae, tapegrass family

Marian C. Munro; Ruth E. Newell; Nicholas M. Hill

Authors

Marian C. Munro Nova Scotia Museum, Halifax, NS
Ruth E. Newell E. C. Smith Herbarium, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia
Nicholas M. Hill Fernhill Institute, Kentville, Nova Scotia; Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia and Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia

Keywords:

Magnoliophyte, tapegrass family, monocots, Elodea, Vallisneria, aquatic plants, waterweed, tapegrass

Abstract

A family of about 80 species, arranged in 17 genera, these annuals or perennials are wholly or partly aquatic. The leaves may be aerial, floating or submersed, whorled or in two ranks. Stems are sometimes absent. If present they may be rhizomatous, The flowers are unisexual, with both monoecious and dioecious species represented. The fruits are berrylike with many seeds. Only two genera reach Nova Scotia, including three species. Some species of other genera have invaded waterways of North America and may be expected to reach our waters. Sean Blaney and Ross Hall provided use of their images.

Author Biographies

Marian C. Munro, Nova Scotia Museum, Halifax, NS

Curator of Botany (NSPM)

Ruth E. Newell, E. C. Smith Herbarium, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia

Curator of the E. C. Smith Herbarium (ACAD)

Nicholas M. Hill, Fernhill Institute, Kentville, Nova Scotia; Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia and Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia

Director; Adjunct Professor