Carnivorous plants or carnivores are mainly grown because of their interesting fishing techniques. They catch prey, which they break down through secretions to obtain nutrients. Interesting facts about the digestion of carnivorous plants.
How does digestion work in carnivorous plants?
The digestion of carnivorous plants occurs through secretions that they release after catching prey. These decompose the insects and dissolve nutrients. The digestion process takes about three to ten days, depending on the size of the prey.
Why do carnivores catch prey?
These plants grow in places where there are few nutrients. By catching prey they can ensure their nutrient supply.
This is how the digestion of carnivorous plants works
Carnivorous plants use very different methods to catch prey. Sundew and butterwort form trap leaves that are covered with a sticky substance. Insects stick to it. Pitcher plants and pitcher plants use catching devices into which the prey falls. The Venus flytrap closes its trap and traps the animal.
Exactly how digestion works is not scientifically clear. However, it is certain that after catching a prey, the plants release secretions that dissolve the insects and release the nutrients.
All that's left is the indigestible chitinous shell and the legs. In nature they are blown away by the wind when the trap opens again.
How long does the digestion process take?
The length of the digestion process depends on the size of the prey. It can last from three to four days to ten days.
Can carnivores digest all insects?
Animals that are not too large are caught in the traps and with the leaves. Basically all insects could be digested, like:
- Fruit flies
- Mosquitoes
- Ants
- Flying
- Wasps
Prey animals such as flies and wasps are too large for small carnivorous plant species. They can only be digested in the calyxes of the pitcher plants or the pitchers of the pitcher plant.
Digestion works with secretions
If the carnivorous plant cannot release secretions, digestion will not occur. The traps or leaves then die.
This can be seen very well with the pitcher plant. The digestive secretion is located in the cans. If this is accidentally spilled, the cans will dry out. Filling in water doesn't help either.
Tip
You should avoid feeding carnivorous plants if possible. There is a great danger that you are doing too much of a good thing and also feeding the wrong things. Carnivores can only digest live prey that is not too large.
