Species › Plants › Water Spangles

Water Spangles

Salvinia minima

CommonPlant
Illustration of Water Spangles (Salvinia minima)

Water Spangles is a floating fern with small, oval leaves that form a dense mat on the water's surface. Its leaves are covered with tiny hairs that repel water, giving it a velvety appearance. This plant can quickly cover water surfaces, impacting light penetration and oxygen levels.

Habitat
It grows in slow-moving or still freshwater environments such as ponds and marshes.
Diet
Provides shelter for aquatic insects and small fish.
How common
Common

Best time to see a Water Spangles

The best time to see a Water Spangles is October–March, when about 63% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 2,650 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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