Carnivorous Plants

1. Carnivorous Plants Not Quite as Bad as Audrey II from “The Little Shop of Horrors”

2. 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

3. 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

4. Pitcher Plant

5. 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

6. Venus-Flytrap

7. 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

8. Sundew

9. Sundew • Glandular hairs on the leaf surface produce an adhesive like “superglue” • Insects get “stuck” and are digested away