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The Eel grass (Vallisneria gigantea) belongs to Hydrocharitaceae (the Frogbit family). It is a perennial herb that is native to Southeast Asia. It has now naturalized in tropical to temperate regions of the world. It grows in ponds, lakes and quiet streams at depths of 1 to 4 m. The leaves are narrow, flattened, ribbon-like, 1.5 m long and about 1 cm wide. Light green streaks run down the center of the veins. It is dioecious. Individual flowers have three sepals and three white petals, and occur in a tubular spathe that grows to the water surface at the end of a long peduncle. Fertilization occurs when male flowers float into contact with female flowers.
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