What is emersed definition?

Emersed refers to a plant that grows completely or partially out of water, with its leaves and stems above the water's surface. The term is often used to describe aquatic plants that grow along the edges of a pond or wetland, or in shallow water areas where the plant roots can still reach the soil or mud below. Emersed plants need air circulation around the aerial parts of their stems and leaves to survive, and they are often adapted to drier conditions, such as by having thick stems or leaves covered with a waxy cuticle. Examples of emersed plants include cattails, rushes, and water lilies.