Aquatic Plants & Algae -

These plants are not attached to the bottom at all. They drift with the current, absorbing nutrients directly through roots hanging in the water. Examples include duckweed and water hyacinth. The World of Algae

These invisible giants produce roughly 50% of the Earth's oxygen. They are the primary producers that feed everything from tiny zooplankton to blue whales. Ecological Importance Aquatic Plants & Algae

Through photosynthesis, they release dissolved oxygen into the water, which is essential for fish and invertebrates. These plants are not attached to the bottom at all

The most important distinction lies in their complexity and evolutionary history. The World of Algae These invisible giants produce

These are complex, multicellular organisms. Like land plants, they possess specialized tissues, including roots, stems, and leaves. Most aquatic plants evolved from terrestrial ancestors that returned to the water, retaining vascular systems to transport nutrients.