The presence of the thread-like naiad, Najas gracillima (Najadaceae), in the indigenous aquatic flora of Québec (Canada) is confirmed. This species is highly sensitive to pollution and, due to the eutrophication of lakes and streams, is in decline throughout its natural range in North America. To facilitate the identification of this rare species, the present article provides a key to the species of Najas occurring in Québec, along with a discussion of the distinguishing characteristics of N. gracillima. The danger of confusing this species with the exotic and invasive N. minor is also highlighted. In addition, the present article provides up-to-date global distribution data for N. gracillima, and a distribution map for the species in eastern Canada and the adjacent United States, based on an exhaustive survey of the literature and of specimens in the National Herbarium of Canada (CAN), the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Collection of Vascular Plants (DAO), and the Marie-Victorin Herbarium (MT). Detailed notes on the habitat of the only known location for this species in Québec are also included.