Found in all 50 states, Bladderwort can be easily identified by its bladders (seed-like anatomy) found throughout the green leafage. It has erect above-water stems with yellowish flowers. Often forming dense coverage in shallow waters, Bladderworts lack roots. The submerged, fleshy petioles are full of air allowing them to float. Approximately 4 to 10 delicate lateral leaves curl and twist around the thin stems. As with all aquatic plant species, Bladderwort serves an ecological importance to its surrounding ecosystem. Bladderwort is a food source for many species while others use the vegetation to lay eggs or find the stems as a convenient shelter.
