Categories of benthic flowering plants

• Zone of emergent plants

Consisting of plants whose roots and stems remain submerged in water and whose upper leaves and stems protrude above the water level e.g. cat's-tail, arrowheads, etc. This is followed by,

• Zone of plants with floating leaves

Containing plants ecologically similar to the previous types of plants though the photosynthetic area of these plants is much more wide. Water shields and water lilies abound here.

• Zone of submerged vegetation

Includes plants which are completely or largely submerged in water. Plants of this zone have highly divided leaves to overcome the tearing of leaves by strong water currents for maximum absorption of nutrients as their root system is poorly developed. Pond weeds are usually prominent in this zone.