What is the term used for a plant that is rooted in the lake bottom but has leaves and flowers that float on the surface?

The term "floating-leaved plant" accurately describes a type of aquatic plant that has its roots anchored in the substrate of a body of water, while its leaves and flowers float on the surface. This unique growth habit allows these plants to access sunlight for photosynthesis, which is crucial for their survival, while also anchoring them to the lake bottom. Floating-leaved plants, such as water lilies, exemplify this adaptation, which enables them to thrive in aquatic environments. This distinction is vital for understanding aquatic ecosystems and the various adaptations of plants to different aquatic conditions.

In contrast, submerged plants are entirely underwater, typically growing beneath the surface without floating leaves. Emergent plants grow from the water's bottom but primarily rise above the surface, branching out into the air with stems and leaves. Free-floating plants reside on the water surface without any attachment to the lake bottom, lacking roots that penetrate the substrate. Each of these types plays a different ecological role within aquatic habitats, highlighting the diversity of plant adaptations.