Which of the following aquatic plants primarily uses rhizomes for reproduction?

Curly-leaf pondweed primarily uses rhizomes for reproduction, which contributes significantly to its ability to spread and establish itself in various aquatic environments. Rhizomes are modified underground stems that can produce new shoots and roots, allowing the plant to grow laterally and colonize new areas. This form of vegetative reproduction is particularly effective in aquatic settings, where many plants must adapt to fluctuating water levels and competition for light and nutrients.

In contrast, watermilfoil primarily reproduces through fragmentation, where pieces of the plant can break off and grow into new plants. Naiad species often reproduce through seeds and can also produce vegetative growth, but they are not primarily reliant on rhizomes. Bladderworts, known for their unique underwater traps and free-floating nature, mainly reproduce via seeds and turions, rather than rhizomes. The ability of curly-leaf pondweed to utilize rhizomes gives it a competitive advantage in many aquatic ecosystems, allowing it to persist and proliferate where other plants may struggle.