What is the primary method of reproduction for Mosquitofern?

Mosquitofern, or Azolla, primarily reproduces through the method of spores and budding leaves breaking away. This aquatic plant often forms dense mats on the surface of water bodies and demonstrates a unique reproductive strategy.

During optimal growth conditions, Mosquitofern can produce specialized structures called sporophytes that develop into new plants. Additionally, it frequently utilizes vegetative reproduction where the plant's leaves, or fronds, can bud off or detach from the parent plant, leading to new individuals. This process is significant for the rapid spread in suitable environments, allowing Mosquitofern to effectively colonize water surfaces.

The other methods listed—root division, seed production, and fragmentation—are not the primary means by which Mosquitofern propagates. Root division typically pertains to terrestrial plants, while seed production is less common in this species due to its preference for faster vegetative methods. Fragmentation generally refers to the breaking of plants into smaller pieces that can grow independently, which is somewhat similar but not as directly applicable to Mosquitofern's primary reproductive strategy as the specific mention of spores and budding leaves.