Freshwater plants are aquatic plants that thrive in freshwater environments, such as lakes, rivers, and ponds. They play a crucial role in their ecosystems by providing oxygen, food, and habitat for various aquatic organisms. Common types of freshwater plants include water lilies, cattails, and duckweed. These plants can be categorized into three main groups: emergent, floating, and submerged. Emergent plants, like bulrushes, grow above the water's surface, while floating plants, such as water hyacinth, float on the surface. Submerged plants, like eelgrass, grow entirely underwater, contributing to the overall health of freshwater habitats.