Common Frog-Bit

<em>Hydrocharis morsus-ranae</em>, commonly known as common frog-bit, is a floating aquatic plant in the family Hydrocharitaceae. It is native to Europe, with documented occurrences in Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, and Latvia, and has also been introduced to North America where it occurs in Canada and the United States. The species typically inhabits still or slow-moving freshwater habitats such as ponds, ditches, marshes, and lake margins, where it floats freely on the water surface. <em>Hydrocharis morsus-ranae</em> is assessed as Endangered, reflecting significant declines in its native European populations attributed to habitat loss, water quality degradation, and drainage of wetland areas. Its small, rounded floating leaves and white flowers are characteristic features that distinguish it among aquatic flora. The species provides habitat and shelter for aquatic invertebrates and small fish. Biological traits of this species remain poorly documented in the scientific literature. Conservation of suitable wetland habitats is essential for the persistence of this Endangered aquatic plant across its native European range.