Wolffia Globosa
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''Wolffia globosa'' is a species of flowering plant known by the common names Asian watermeal and duckweed. It is native to Asia and is found in parts of the Americas and Africa, where it is an
introduced species An introduced species, alien species, exotic species, adventive species, immigrant species, foreign species, non-indigenous species, or non-native species is a species living outside its native distributional range, but which has arrived ther ...
. It grows in mats on the surface of calm, freshwater bodies, such as ponds, lakes, and marshes. It is a very tiny, oval-shaped plant with no leaves, stems, or roots. The body of the plant, a transparent green frond, is less than a millimeter wide. In one human experiment, processed ''W. globosa'' was reported to provide dietary protein and vitamin B12. ''Wolffia globosa'' has been described as the world's smallest flowering plant, at in diameter. Known in Thai as ''Pham'' (ผํา), it is a popular item in
Thai cuisine Thai cuisine (, , ) is the national cuisine of Thailand. Thai cooking places emphasis on lightly prepared dishes with aromatics and spicy heat. The Australian chef David Thompson (chef), David Thompson, an expert on Thai food, observes that ...
, especially in
Isan Northeast Thailand or Isan (Isan language, Isan/, ; ; also written as Isaan, Isarn, Issarn, Issan, Esan, or Esarn; from Pāli ''isāna'' or Sanskrit ईशान्य ''īśānya'' "northeast") consists of 20 provinces in northeastern Thai ...
.


Global distribution and invasive status

''Wolffia globosa'' is native to Southeast Asia but has established populations in multiple continents, including parts of North and South America, Africa, and Oceania. Its remarkable adaptability allows it to thrive in diverse freshwater environments, often forming dense mats on ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers. In some regions, such as Florida (USA), ''W. globosa'' is recognized as an introduced species and is monitored for its potential ecological impacts, including competition with native aquatic plants and effects on local biodiversity.


Molecular biology and genomic insights

Recent advances in molecular biology have facilitated the sequencing of the ''Wolffia globosa'' genome, revealing unique genetic adaptations that support its minute size and rapid growth. Genomic studies have identified specific genes associated with efficient nutrient uptake, reduced structural complexity, and high reproductive capacity. These findings provide new insights into the evolutionary reduction of plant body plans and have implications for both plant developmental biology and biotechnological applications.


Protein content and food security applications

''Wolffia globosa'' contains exceptionally high protein levels—up to 40% of its dry weight—making it a promising candidate for future food security. It is rich in essential amino acids and micronutrients, including vitamin B12, and can be cultivated rapidly in minimal space. Recent research highlights its potential as a sustainable plant-based protein source, especially in regions facing nutritional deficiencies. Pilot studies in Southeast Asia have explored its use in traditional and novel food products, positioning ''W. globosa'' as a model for “future foods.”Sree, K. S. et al. (2022). Duckweeds: Omnipresent tiny plants with profound applications in agriculture and food. Plants, 11(12), 1641. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11121641


References


External links


Jepson Manual (1993)
Lemnoideae Flora of tropical Asia Flora of China Flora of Japan Flora of Taiwan {{Araceae-stub