The family has been investigated as a potential source of food on long space voyages by NASA because of its ability to reproduce asexually, by budding. Currently, it is an important food source for aquatic birds and fishes. Fruit a utricle. Seeds are large with endosperm present or lacking.
PLacentation is basal.
Habit is as a thallus-like floating or submerged aquatic. May have one or few simple roots. Leaves are lacking. Stipules are lacknig.