Flowering Months:
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Family:
Lentibulariaceae (Bladderwort)
Maximum Size:
40 centimetres tall
Habitats:
Bogs, ditches, fens, ponds, water, wetland.
Lesser Bladderwort produces small, bright yellow flowers from June to August. Each flower has two lips: a hooded upper lip and a broader, often shallowly three-lobed lower lip with a backward-pointing spur. The flowers are smaller than those of Greater, Wavy, or Pale Bladderwort, and are borne singly or in small numbers on thin stalks that rise above the water surface. This subtle and compact floral structure helps distinguish the species from its larger relatives.
Fruit:
Fruiting is uncommon in the UK, but when it occurs, it takes the form of a small, rounded capsule filled with tiny seeds. Like other bladderworts, Utricularia minor mainly reproduces vegetatively, forming winter buds (turions) in autumn. These turions sink and overwinter at the bottom of water bodies before rising again in spring to regenerate the plant.
Leaves:
The leaves of Lesser Bladderwort are thread-like and divided into narrow segments arranged in whorls along the slender, rootless stems. Interspersed among the leaf segments are minute bladder traps used to capture tiny aquatic organisms. Compared to similar species, its leaf segments are narrower and more delicate, and unlike U. intermedia, they bear traps on the same shoots as the leafy segments.
Fragrance:
The flowers of Utricularia minor are not known to be scented. If a fragrance exists, it is likely faint and intended for pollinators, but it is not noticeable to humans.
Other Names:
Small Bladderwort.
Frequency (UK):
Occasionally seen
Summary
Utricularia minor, also known as small bladderwort, is a small, carnivorous aquatic plant that is native to North and Central America. It is a member of the Lentibulariaceae family and is known for its small, bladder-like structures that are used to trap and digest small aquatic animals, such as water fleas and protozoa. The plant has thin, delicate stems and small, yellow or purple flowers that are borne on long stalks above the water surface. It is a popular plant for aquaria and is often used in naturalized ponds or water gardens. U. minor is a fast-growing plant that is easy to care for and is tolerant of a wide range of water conditions. It prefers full sun and can tolerate a wide range of pH levels. It is important to note that U. minor is a protected species in some areas and may not be collected or removed from the wild without permission.
Blog
Lesser Bladderwort (Utricularia minor) is a carnivorous plant species that belongs to the genus Utricularia. It is commonly found in wet habitats such as marshes, bogs, and along the edges of streams and ponds.
This plant is known for its unique method of capturing prey. It has small bladders that are filled with water and have a small opening that leads to the inside of the bladder. The opening is triggered by the movement of small aquatic animals, such as crustaceans and insects, which then causes the bladder to suck in the animal and trap it inside. This process provides the plant with essential nutrients that are lacking in its wetland habitat.
Utricularia minor is a small plant, growing to a maximum height of 20 cm. Its leaves are narrow and submerged, while its small, yellow flowers are usually found above the water's surface. The plant reproduces via seeds and produces a large number of seeds each year, which can be dispersed by water or wind.
In its native range, Lesser Bladderwort is a common and widespread species. However, it is important to note that the survival of this species is threatened by habitat destruction, particularly the loss of wetland habitats. Climate change is also a concern for the future of this plant species.
Lesser Bladderwort is also known for its medicinal properties. The plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including skin conditions, bladder and kidney problems, and digestive disorders. The active compounds found in the plant have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which make it an effective treatment for a range of health issues.
In terms of its cultivation, Lesser Bladderwort is a hardy plant that is well adapted to growing in wetland habitats. It can be grown in a variety of soil types as long as the soil is kept consistently moist. It is best grown in full sun or partial shade, and can be propagated by dividing the plant or by planting its seeds.
When growing Lesser Bladderwort in a garden or pond, it is important to maintain the correct growing conditions. The plant needs a consistently moist soil, and it is important to ensure that the soil remains well-drained to prevent the roots from rotting. It is also important to avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can negatively impact its health.
The Lesser Bladderwort is an important plant species not only because of its ecological and medicinal value, but also because it is a keystone species in its native habitat. As a carnivorous plant, it helps to control the populations of small aquatic animals and insects, which in turn helps to maintain the balance of the wetland ecosystem. By providing a source of food for other species, such as birds and frogs, the Lesser Bladderwort plays a crucial role in supporting the health of the entire ecosystem.
In addition to its ecological value, the Lesser Bladderwort is also an important subject of scientific study. Scientists are interested in studying the plant's unique carnivorous behavior, as well as its ability to survive in challenging environmental conditions. Research has also been conducted on the plant's medicinal properties, and scientists are working to develop new treatments based on its active compounds.
Unfortunately, despite its importance, the Lesser Bladderwort is facing a number of threats. As mentioned earlier, the destruction of wetland habitats is the main threat to the survival of this species. Climate change is also a concern, as rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns can have a negative impact on the plant's health and reproduction. Invasive species and over-harvesting for medicinal purposes are also threats to the survival of the Lesser Bladderwort.
In conclusion, the Lesser Bladderwort is a remarkable plant species that plays a vital role in its native habitat. By raising awareness about its importance and working to protect and preserve its habitat, we can help ensure the survival of this valuable and fascinating species.
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