Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) have unlocked the genetic secrets of duckweed, an aquatic plant with immense potential in sustainable agriculture, biofuel, and environmental applications. Published in Current Biology, the study presents newly sequenced genomes of five duckweed species, shedding light on the plant’s remarkable adaptability and productivity.
What Makes Duckweed a Game-Changer in Green Technology?
Duckweed is one of the fastest-growing plants on Earth. It thrives in diverse water environments—ponds, swamps, wastewater, and puddles—requiring only sunlight and carbon dioxide. Its rapid growth and ability to regenerate without soil make it ideal for eco-friendly applications, from protein-rich animal feed to biofuel production and even carbon capture.
Now, scientists have taken a giant leap forward in understanding why duckweed is so versatile.
High-Resolution Genome Sequencing of Five Duckweed Species
CSHL Professor and HHMI Investigator Dr. Rob Martienssen, along with computational analyst Evan Ernst, has developed high-quality genome sequences for five duckweed species. This comprehensive gene mapping helps explain the plant’s extraordinary traits.
“The use of cutting-edge genome sequencing allowed us to precisely identify which genes are present or missing,” said Martienssen. “We found that certain missing genes are directly linked to traits like open stomata and the absence of roots.”
Unique Genetic Traits Uncovered
- Open stomata: These tiny pores help the plant absorb more carbon dioxide and release oxygen efficiently, enhancing its role in carbon capture technologies.
- Lack of roots: Some species grow without roots, increasing their efficiency in nutrient uptake and enabling survival in various water bodies.
- High protein content: Certain duckweed strains are rich in protein, making them a viable option for animal feed and plant-based nutrition.
- Starch accumulation: Other species store high amounts of starch, positioning duckweed as a potential biofuel source.
The Future of Duckweed Farming and Its Commercial Potential
Ernst notes that while duckweed agriculture is still emerging, interest from multiple industries is growing. Farmers and commercial growers are experimenting with various species, assessing their suitability for local environments.
“There’s significant genetic diversity even within a single species of duckweed,” says Ernst. “That’s why sequencing multiple species is essential for understanding its full potential.”
With this newly released genomic data, duckweed cultivation could see rapid advancements in agriculture, clean energy, and climate resilience.
Insights Into Evolution and Climate Adaptation
Beyond its commercial promise, the research offers a glimpse into duckweed’s evolutionary journey. The genetic data suggests these species diverged around 59 million years ago, during a period of extreme climate change—an insight that may hold clues to how plants adapt to environmental stressors.
Duckweed Genome Research: Study Details
Study Title: Duckweed genomes and epigenomes underlie triploid hybridization and clonal reproduction
Authors: Evan Ernst et al.
Journal: Current Biology (2025)
DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.03.013
Final Thoughts
With its minimal growing requirements, high yield, and diverse applications, duckweed is poised to play a significant role in sustainable development. This breakthrough genome research could accelerate the development of innovative solutions in food production, renewable energy, and environmental conservation.