Azolla : very unusual plant
Azolla is an odd plant in the water fern family. It is often used to decorate tanks and fake ponds. But, you can also find it growing wild in nature.
Azolla belongs to its own genus, also called Azolla. It has about seven kinds of plants in it. Some grow very fast. They can fill up lakes and ponds. This can cause problems for the environment.
Azolla looks a bit like moss or tiny ferns. Its branches look like small spruce or juniper trees. When it grows, it makes a lace-like cover on the water. This looks nice. So, many people who own fish tanks or ponds like to use it.
Azolla is common in the USA. Many people there like this plant. You can also find it in other places. It grows in Great Britain, Ireland, and Morocco. It is also in Hawaii, New Zealand, Japan, and China. Plus, it grows in Australia and Africa.
