About Ranunculus trichophyllus Chaix
Nomenclature
Ranunculus trichophyllus Chaix, commonly known as threadleaf crowfoot or thread-leaved water-crowfoot, is a plant species in the genus Ranunculus. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North America.
Plant Type
This is a herbaceous annual or perennial plant that generally grows in slow-flowing streams, ponds, and lakes.
Flower Characteristics
Its flowers are daisy-like, white with a yellow center, and have five petals.
Similar Species Comparison
It is similar in overall form to Ranunculus fluitans (river water-crowfoot), but differs from that species by having 5 petals, shorter leaves, and a preference for slower flowing water.
Fruit Characteristics
It also produces rounded seed heads that develop into bristly-covered fruits.
Research Focus
Both this species' segmented leaves and its ability to photosynthesize underwater have been the subject of research.
Global Distribution Range
Its distribution covers most of the Northern Hemisphere, ranging from the United States, Europe, and the Mediterranean, eastward through Siberia, the Caucasus, the Middle East, the Himalayas, Kazakhstan, and Mongolia to Russia's Kamchatka; it also grows in Japan, China, and Korea.
High Elevation Distribution
It can even be found growing in the lakes and ponds of Mount Everest.
Habitat Types
This species grows in freshwater habitats, from dune slacks and drainage ditches to ponds, lakes, streams, and slow-flowing rivers.
Elevation Range
It can be found growing at elevations up to 3,000 m (9,800 ft) above sea level.
