NO, it’s neither an algae nor an
ordinary aquatic plant. Its WOLFFIA referred
as world’s smallest flower. It is easily available almost in all parts of the world,
particularly in warm, temperate and tropical regions. Usually found floating in
masses in fresh water streams, lakes and marshes. It has about 10 to 15
species. Its weight is about as two
grains of sand. It has no stems, leaves or roots. Its flower has a single pistil
and stamen produces smallest fruits called as utricle. Flower color varies
yellow to light green. As they are very small, by using microscope we can
easily identified them. They reproduce very rapidly. One plant gives rise to million plants in four months.
WOLFFIA AS A FOOD
This plan can help our planet in
various ways. It is fast growing and has multipurpose uses. It is eaten by
ducks and other aquatic birds and also by some fishes. It contains 40% protein
having potential to become part of human diet but neglected due to its smaller
size.
It is use for other commercial
purposes as they are good in absorbing nitrogen as phosphates – substance
necessarily removed during sewage treatment. It is also use as a fertilizer. It
can also be a source of sustainable fuel. As it contain protein can be used to
make bio-plastics. Germans try to adopt it as a food plant for astronauts.
Genetic engineers are trying to
modify wolffia to produce low cost pharmaceuticals such as vaccines.
Pharmaceuticals companies now showing their interest in that plant.
