Harnessing the Potential of Duckweed: Biological Insights and Ecological Applications

Duckweed (Lemnaceae), as a representative of aquatic plants, plays a significant role in aquatic ecosystems with its unique existence and ecological functions, offering numerous potential applications. Due to its high growth rates, elevated photosynthetic efficiency, and tolerance to poor water conditions, duckweed holds promise for various uses, including bioremediation, bioenergy production, and a biomass source for biofuels and bioproducts. Current research extensively explores the interactions between duckweed and its environment, including factors such as water quality, nutrient supply, and biological interactions. Studies also investigate the growth, reproduction, and physiological responses of duckweed to environmental changes across cellular, biochemical, physiological, and ecological scales, aiming to optimize cultivation techniques and enhance its performance in various applications. Additionally, duckweed serves as an important food source for many aquatic animals and a crucial component of the aquatic food web, influencing the balance of aquatic ecosystems.

The aim of this research topic is to advance our understanding of duckweed and its potential applications. By studying its growth, reproduction, and physiological responses to various environmental conditions, we seek to optimize its applications in bioremediation, bioenergy production, and environmental protection. This research will delve into the role of duckweed in maintaining water quality and promoting biodiversity within aquatic ecosystems while assessing its ecological value as a key element in the aquatic food chain. Furthermore, this research will investigate the mechanisms of duckweed evolution and environmental adaptation. The ultimate goal is to enhance the application of duckweed as a bioreactor, promote sustainable agricultural practices, foster innovations in renewable energy, and bolster environmental protection efforts, thereby creating a more balanced and resilient ecosystem.

Specific topics include but are not limited to:
- The biology and ecology of duckweed, including its growth, reproduction, and adaptations to various environments.
- The use of duckweed in bioremediation, particularly in removing pollutants from contaminated water bodies.
- The potential of duckweed as a bioenergy source, including its use in biofuel production and biomass generation.
- The nutritional value of duckweed and its potential as a food source for humans and animals.
- The ecological role of duckweed in maintaining water quality and biodiversity in aquatic ecosystems.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• ... View all formats

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Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Systematic Review

Keywords: duckweed, aquatic ecosystems, biological interactions, physiological responses, ecological balance, biofuels and bioproducts

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.