Which type of aquatic plant primarily relies on soil nutrients available under water?

Submersed aquatic plants primarily rely on soil nutrients available underwater because they are entirely or largely submerged beneath the water's surface. These plants absorb nutrients directly from the water as well as from the sediment in which they grow. This ability allows them to thrive in their aquatic environment, utilizing both the water column and the substrate for nutrient uptake.

In contrast, emergent plants grow above the water's surface and typically access nutrients primarily from the soil and air; floating plants derive support and some nutrients from the water but may not rely on soil nutrients as much. Aerial plants grow primarily in terrestrial environments and obtain nutrients from the soil, not underwater. Thus, the characteristics and growth requirements of submersed plants make them well-suited to accessing nutrients found underwater.