The Plant That Catches Flies

Venus Flytrap

• The Venus Flytrap (Dionaea muscipula) is one of the most intriguing carnivorous plants thanks to its unique trapping mechanism. Each leaf of the flytrap consists of two oval surfaces that are connected at the base. The outer edge of each half leaf supports a row of hard spines, while the pink inner surface secretes an aromatic chemical and is equipped with a series of sensitive hairs that triggers the trap reflex. When an insect touches the inner surface of the leaf, the two halves close and trap the insect between them. Once a leaf catches prey, it seals itself shut and releases enzymes to consume the insect over a period of several days.

Tropical Pitcher Plants

• Tropical pitcher plants (Nepenthes sp.) grow in wet, tropical regions of southeast Asia. These plants rely on modified leaves to attract and capture flying insects. The foliage of Nepenthes plants grow as a hollow cylinder, which resembles a vase or pitcher --- some species produce pitchers up to 2 feet in length and several inches in diameter. The interior of the pitchers are colorful and produce an attractive aroma that draws insects into the trap. The walls of the pitcher are coated with a slippery substance that prevents the prey from escaping. The bottom of each pitcher holds a quantity of sticky liquid that restrains trapped insects and allows the plant to release enzymes to slowly digest them.

American Pitcher Plants

• American pitcher plants (Sarracenia sp.) are another distinct group of pitcher plants recognized by botanical authorities. Unlike their tropical brethren, this type of pitcher plant grows well in colder climates throughout North America. Most of the eight or nine species in this genus grow in Southern U.S., including Alabama and the Carolinas, but the Sarracenia purpurea species can grow as far north as the Canadian province of Newfoundland. These pitcher plants function much like tropical pitchers. The nectar of American pitcher species confuses the senses of its prey, causing them to lose control of their body and fall helplessly into the pool of digestive fluid. The pitchers of these plants are also colorful and aromatic, but tend to be smaller than those of tropical species.

Sundews

• Sundews (Drosera sp.) are one of the most prolific carnivorous plants --- they grow in both warm and cool climates in various regions around the world. These plants have a simple, yet effective, mechanism for capturing their prey. They produce long stalks with dozens of tiny hairs -- growths that resemble the tentacles of an octopus or squid. Tiny glands along the surface of the stalks produce a tantalizing chemical that attracts flies and other insects. Insects that land on the plant become stuck in its viscous coating. The stalk folds on itself to form a spiral, which traps the insect inside several layers of tissue to ensure it cannot escape. The glands produces a corrosive chemical, like other carnivorous plants, to digest and absorb its prey.