Ontogenetic Development and Acclimation of Duckweeds Under Different Ambient Conditions

Abstract

Duckweeds, once favored in botanical experiments, have resurged due to their rapid adaptability and potential across various domains. With 37 known species within the Lemnaceae family, they are recognized as the world's smallest flowering plants. This study focuses on Lemna gibba, investigating its ontogenetic development and response to light intensity. LG2 showed the fastest growth, while LG6 and LG10 exhibited slower but comparable rates. Higher light intensity enhanced growth, influencing frond size and photosynthetic efficiency. Photosynthetic capacity increased with frond maturation, with daughter fronds displaying lower performance. Mature fronds peaked at 2.5mm, with the middle region exhibiting optimal efficiency. Understanding duckweed's adaptive mechanisms and physiological responses contributes to broader research in plant physiology and environmental adaptation.