This is widespread in eutrophic waters from North to South America, but concentrated in humid tropical to subtropical regions (Crawford et al. 1996). It is easily overlooked or confused with its closest relative, minuta; 2n = 40, 42 (FNA 22, W). Like minuta, it has only one vein but the vein is more distinct, reaching at least 3/4 of the way from node to apex (versus at most 2/3); fronds tend to be more elongated (L/W = 1.2-3 versus 1-2), with a more asymmetric base, and often in attached groups of 8-10 (versus rarely more than 2). L. valdiviana is able to grow submerged under competing "pleustophytes" (free-floating plants), and can root into the soil, but minuta usually floats on the surface. These are closely related species and rare hybrids appear to occur based on molecular evidence (Crawford et al. 1996).