Question 1

What is Potamogeton roxburghianus?

Accepted Answer

Potamogeton roxburghianus is a submerged freshwater aquatic plant in the family Potamogetonaceae, commonly known as pondweed. It is listed in Sri Lanka's catalogue of ayurvedic medicinal plants and is found in slow-moving or still freshwater habitats such as ponds, irrigation canals, and paddy drainage channels across the island.

Question 2

Where is Potamogeton roxburghianus found in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The species grows in lowland freshwater habitats in both the wet and dry zones of Sri Lanka. It is associated with the island's ancient irrigation tank systems, natural ponds, and the quieter margins of rivers and wetlands. It tends to favour slow-moving or still water with sufficient light penetration.

Question 3

What are the medicinal uses of Potamogeton roxburghianus?

Accepted Answer

Potamogeton roxburghianus is included in Sri Lanka's official ayurvedic medicinal plant catalogue, indicating documented traditional applications. Related species in the Potamogeton genus are associated with cooling, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties. Formal pharmacological research on this specific species is limited, and it is considered a subject of potential further scientific study.

Question 4

Is Potamogeton roxburghianus endemic to Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

No, Potamogeton roxburghianus is not endemic to Sri Lanka. The genus Potamogeton has a wide global distribution, and this species is found across tropical and subtropical Asia. However, Sri Lanka's catalogue of ayurvedic plants records it as part of the island's traditional medical flora.

Question 5

What family does Potamogeton roxburghianus belong to?

Accepted Answer

It belongs to the family Potamogetonaceae, a group of aquatic flowering plants that grow primarily in freshwater environments. Plants in this family are found on every continent except Antarctica and are often important components of aquatic ecosystems.

Question 6

Who was Potamogeton roxburghianus named after?

Accepted Answer

The species epithet roxburghianus honours William Roxburgh, a Scottish botanist who worked extensively in India during the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. Roxburgh is sometimes called the 'father of Indian botany' and documented thousands of South Asian plant species during his career.

Question 7

What threats do aquatic plants like Potamogeton roxburghianus face in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Freshwater aquatic plants in Sri Lanka face pressure from wetland drainage, water pollution including agrochemicals from paddy farming, and invasive aquatic species. Changes in land use that alter water flow or reduce water quality can significantly affect submerged plant communities. Institutional efforts to document and conserve these species are ongoing.