4-18 Potamogetonaceae, pondweed 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, pondweed family, monocots, Potamogeton, pondweed

Abstract

Only two genera form the pondweeds, numbering about 90 species worldwide. All have perfect flowers arranged in a spike or head. Perianth is absent; flowers are four-merous. Some species exhibit heterophyllous leaves. An important character is the presence or absence of lacunae, rows of colourless cells on either side of the central axis. All perennial, they are an important food source for waterfowl. Photograph use donated by Roger Lloyd, David Mazerolle, Ross Hall and Sean Blaney.

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