Sagittaria macrophylla facts for kids

Sagittaria macrophylla, also known as papa de agua, is a special kind of water plant. It grows only in central Mexico, in states like Jalisco, Michoacán, México, Hidalgo, and near Mexico City. You can find it in clean, shallow water that moves slowly.

Sadly, this plant is facing a threat. As cities grow, its natural home is being destroyed. This makes it harder for papa de agua to survive.

About Papa de Agua

Papa de agua plants have underground parts called tubers. These tubers are like small, starchy potatoes. They are safe to eat and have been an important food source for people in Mexico for a long time. That's why it's called "papa de agua," which means "water potato."

What Papa de Agua Looks Like

This plant has large, arrow-shaped leaves. The main part of the leaf can be up to 30 centimeters long. The top part of the leaf is wide and shaped like a spear. The two parts at the bottom are smaller and narrower, making the leaf look like an arrowhead.

Where Papa de Agua Grows

Papa de agua prefers specific places to grow. It needs water that is not too deep and moves gently. The water also has to be clean. This plant is found only in central Mexico, making it unique to that region.

Why Papa de Agua Is Important

For many years, the tubers of papa de agua have been a traditional food. They provide energy and nutrients to the people living in central Mexico. Protecting this plant means protecting a part of Mexico's natural heritage and food traditions.

See also

In Spanish: Papa de agua para niños