The water blossoms of Lugu Lake

The water blossoms of Lugu Lake mainly refer to Ottelia acuminata var. crispa. It is a submerged herbaceous plant of the family Hydrocharitaceae. Here is a detailed introduction: Basic InformationBotanical Name: Ottelia acuminata var. crispa (Hand.-Mazz.) H.Li. It is also affectionately known as "waterborne poplars" by the locals.Distribution Range: It is mainly distributed in Lugu Lake, at the junction of Yunnan and Sichuan provinces in China. Morphological CharacteristicsStem and Leaves: The stem is short - shrunk, and the leaves are basal. The leaves are long and narrow, with wavy and revolute edges, and the base is suddenly narrowed, truncate - rounded or shallow - cordate, often tapering into a wing. The length of the petiole varies depending on the water depth.Flowers: The flowers are solitary and dioecious. The sepals are green or dark green and lanceolate. The petals are white, with a yellow or dark yellow base, and are inverted - heart - shaped. The stamens are yellow, and the filaments are flat. The styles are orange - yellow, and the stigmas are linear. Growth HabitsWater Quality Requirements: It has extremely high requirements for water quality and can only thrive in unpolluted spring water. It is an important environmental indicator plant.Growth Cycle: The flowering period is from May to October, and the best viewing period is from June to September. It blooms at 7 o'clock in the morning on sunny days, the petals fully unfold at noon, and it closes into a bud at 5 o'clock in the afternoon. Ecological ValueEnvironmental Protection: It can absorb harmful substances such as sediment, nitrogen, and phosphorus in the water, playing a role in purifying the water quality.Food Source: It is a natural food for aquatic animals such as fish and snails, as well as birds. Value and Protection StatusValue: It has观赏,食用,饲用and药用value. Its petioles and flowers can be used as vegetables, and the local people often collect its stems and leaves as pig feed.Protection Status: It is a national second - class protected plant. Due to factors such as continuous drought, increased tourism, and over - picking, its wild natural distribution area is gradually shrinking.