Characteristics, natural history, and applications of Hydrocharis laevigata: A review

Hydrocharis laevigata, a floating macrophyte belonging to the Hydrocharitaceae family, is known to be an invasive species, its proliferation is frequently caused by its use as an ornamental plant in ponds and aquariums, and by the high morphological plasticity, rapid growth, and spread that has allowed it to colonize natural environments from several continents such as North America, South America, Europe, Africa and part of Oceania. A compilation of the literature on this species is made. It has a high protein content (26-30%) that allows it to be considered for forage for aquatic organisms, and because of the ability to bioaccumulate heavy metals on its roots is also considered an excellent bioremediator. The effectiveness of these properties and purposes allows a better understanding of the life history of Hydrocharis laevigata, as well as the establishment of better strategies for its regulation in its distribution zones.