Endangered aquatic plant blooms on Lugu Lake

A large number of ottelia acuminata was recently seen in full bloom on the water surface of Lugu Lake in Lijiang, Southwest China's Yunnan province.

Ottelia acuminata bloom on Lugu Lake in Lijiang, Southwest China's Yunnan province. [Photo/xinhuanet.com]

Ottelia acuminata is an endangered aquatic plant that is only surviving in China. It can be found in lakes, ponds, ditches, and deep-water paddy fields. Its flowering season is usually from May to October.

As a national third-level key protected plant, ottelia acuminata is sensitive to water quality. It will stop growing once the water is polluted. It can also absorb nitrogen, phosphorus, and other substances in sediment and water to purify water quality.

Tourists take a boat ride to enjoy the beautiful view of ottelia acuminata on the water surface of Lugu Lake. [Photo/xinhuanet.com]

Lugu Lake is the third largest fresh and deep water lake in China. It plays a key role in balancing the local environment.

Ottelia acuminata is in full bloom on the water surface of Lugu Lake. [Photo/xinhunet.com]