FLORA
> Isoetes velatum
Family: Isoetaceae
This species of Isoetes, like all others of this genus, is a flowerless plant that reproduces itself through spores instead of seeds.
It is different from other Isoetes due to a membrane, or velum, covering the sporangia where the spores are found.
The species was named after this membrane. This species also does not have phyllopodia in the underground stem.
Spores of Isoetes velatum, I. histrix and I. setaceum, respectively
(Photo of Ivan Carvalho)
It is found in temporary ponds and in other temporarily flooded places with significant seasonal variations of the water level, as for instance the banks of lagoons.
In Mediterranean Temporary Ponds this species may grow in the deepest areas, as well as in the intermediate zone. It has a very fast desiccation and when the dry season starts, its leaves dry up quickly.
It is found in the west Mediterranean regions. In Portugal it has a fragmented distribution.
This plant is characteristic of the priority habitat 3170* of the Directive 92/43/CEE.
