Nymphaea pubescens
Nymphaea pubescens · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Nymphaea pubescens, commonly known as the hairy water lily, is an aquatic plant frequently found in tropical and subtropical wetlands. While it flourishes in warm, stagnant waters, the species faces significant physiological challenges when subjected to cold stress. Dropping temperatures can disrupt the plant's metabolic processes and weaken its structural integrity. Such thermal fluctuations often lead to reduced growth rates and potential damage to its delicate floating leaves. Understanding how this lily navigates extreme temperature shifts is essential for its survival in changing environments.
- Synonyms
- Castalia Pubescens · Nymphaea Lotus Var. Pubescens · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Nymphaeaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Nymphaea pubescens is a versatile aquatic plant known by many different names depending on the region and language. It is most frequently referred to in English as the Hairy Water Lily or the Hairy water-lily. Some enthusiasts also identify this species as the Pink Water-lily due to its distinctive floral coloring. In specific linguistic contexts, it is recognized by the name Plaukuotoji vandens lelija. Additionally, it is sometimes colloquially termed bronslotus, illustrating the diverse ways this beautiful flower is categorized.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Nymphaea pubescens is a botanical species that has been identified by several different scientific names throughout history. Due to various taxonomic classifications, it is formally recognized by synonyms such as Castalia pubescens and Nymphaea devoniensis. Researchers have also documented the plant under the labels Nymphaea lotus var. pubescens and Nymphaea purpurea. Additionally, the name Nymphaea semisterilis serves as another recognized synonym within its complex botanical lineage. Understanding these diverse nomenclatures is essential for accurate identification and study within the plant kingdom.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Nymphaea pubescens is a fascinating specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. Its taxonomic journey continues through the order Nymphaeales, which defines its evolutionary lineage. Furthermore, this aquatic plant is a prominent member of the family Nymphaeaceae. Ultimately, it is categorized under the distinct genus Nymphaea, highlighting its unique botanical identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Nymphaeales |
| Family | Nymphaeaceae |
| Genus | Nymphaea |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Nymphaea pubescens exhibits a broad geographic range that spans across various climatic zones in Asia. In temperate regions, the species can be found throughout China, specifically within the South-Central areas, as well as in Taiwan. Moving into tropical climates, the plant is widely distributed across the Indian Subcontinent. Within this region, it thrives in diverse locations such as Assam, Bangladesh, and the East Himalaya. This extensive distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to both temperate and tropical environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Nymphaea pubescens is characterized by its growth form as a delicate herb. This aquatic plant is entirely self-supporting as it thrives within its ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Nymphaea pubescens, specifically the tropical water lily variety, can be engineered to better treat and withstand cold stress. Researchers achieved this by transforming a choline oxidase gene into the plant through a pollen-tube pathway. This genetic modification leads to significant physiological improvements, such as lower malondialdehyde levels and increased antioxidant enzyme activity. These internal changes effectively bolster the plant's ability to survive harsh winter conditions in higher latitudes. Ultimately, the successful integration of this gene allows the species to manage cold stress and expand its viable cultivation range.