Brasenia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Brasenia |
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Brasenia
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schreberi
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Brasenia schreberi is a special type of water plant. It is the only species in its group, called Brasenia. You can find this plant in many parts of the world. It grows in North America, the Caribbean, South America, Asia, Australia, and Africa.
This plant is also known as the water-shield. It is an aquatic plant that lives in water all year round. Its leaves float on the surface of the water. The plant has bright green leaves and small purple flowers. These flowers usually bloom from June to September.
One cool thing about Brasenia is the thick, jelly-like goo it makes. This goo covers the parts of the plant that are underwater. Scientists think this sticky layer helps protect the plant. It might stop snails and other animals from eating it. Brasenia likes to grow in shallow lakes, rivers, and even beaver ponds. It especially likes water that is a bit acidic.
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How Water-Shield Flowers Grow
Water-shield flowers are pollinated by the wind. This means the wind carries their pollen from one flower to another. The flowers have a two-day blooming cycle.
On the first day, the flower acts like a female. It rises above the water surface. Its special parts, called stigmas, are ready to receive pollen. After a while, the flower goes back under the water.
The next day, the same flower comes up again. But this time, it acts like a male. It rises even higher than before. Its pollen-producing parts, called anthers, open up. They release tiny pollen grains into the air. After releasing its pollen, the flower goes back under the water. This is where its fruit will grow.
What Water-Shield Is Used For
Brasenia is not just a pretty plant. People in some parts of the world use it as a vegetable! In China, it is called chúncài. It is a popular ingredient in a famous soup from Hangzhou. This soup is known as "West Lake Water Shield Soup."
In Japan, the plant is called junsai. People enjoy eating it there too.
Scientists have also found something interesting about the plant's goo. This sticky substance can help stop algae and bacteria from growing. This means it might be used as a natural way to control weeds in the future.
The Name of Water-Shield
The scientific name for this plant is Brasenia schreberi. It is commonly called water-shield.
The name Brasenia was given to honor a person named Christoph Brasen. He was a surgeon and a missionary. He lived from 1738 to 1774. He was the first leader of a mission in Nain, Canada.
Images for kids
See also
In Spanish: Brasenia para niños
