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Carnivorous Plants. Not Quite as Bad as Audrey II from “The Little Shop of Horrors”. Carnivorous Plants. Approximately 400 species of angiosperms are known to be “carnivorous” or “meat-eaters” A more appropriate name would be insectivorous since insects are normal prey.
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Carnivorous Plants Not Quite as Bad as Audrey II from “The Little Shop of Horrors”
Carnivorous Plants • Approximately 400 species of angiosperms are known to be “carnivorous” or “meat-eaters” • A more appropriate name would be insectivorous since insects are normal prey. • Most exist in nutrient-poor soils such as fresh water bogs • Insects may provide the missing nutrients
Adaptations • Carnivorous plants have evolved elaborate traps to lure prey • Traps are all modified leaves with various incentives to attract insects such as elaborate colors or nectar • Once insects are trapped digestive enzymes are released • Only the empty insect shell will be left
Pitcher Plant
Pitcher Plant • Leaf has evolved into a vase (or pitcher) shape • At the bottom of the “vase” rainwater will collect along with digestive enzymes • Insects lured into the vase and sharp hairs prevent their exit
Venus Flytrap • Each leaf is a two-sided trap with trigger hairs on each side • If trigger hairs are touched, trap snaps shut • Insects are trapped and digested in place
Sundew • Glandular hairs on the leaf surface produce an adhesive like “superglue” • Insects get “stuck” and are digested away
