Nepenthes: tropical pitcher plant
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Nepenthes: tropical pitcher plant
The insectivorous nepenthes plants are epiphitic plants that grow on the branches of trees common in Australia, the Phillipines and Malaysia. The brightly coloured pitchers, or glass-shaped receptacles, develop at the end of the leaves in shades of red, green or mottled in order to attract small insects such as mosquitoes and ants. These insects supply the nitrogen the plant needs and which is often lacking in the equatorial soil of their habitat. Odorous substances lure the prey into the pitchers where there are thousands of microscopic fibres and a sticky fluid containing a digestive enzyme Research is ongoing to to see whether these liquids can be developed into eco-friendly pesticides
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9260129
© SHEILA TERRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Ants Carnivorous Coloration Colour Digestive Enzyme Enzyme Epiphyte Epiphytic Insectivorous Mosquitoes Nitrogen Nutrients Pesticide Pitcher Plant Tropics Nepenthes
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the mesmerizing beauty of Nepenthes, a tropical pitcher plant found in Australia, the Philippines, and Malaysia. These epiphytic plants have evolved to grow on tree branches, using their brightly colored pitchers as a clever trap for small insects like mosquitoes and ants. The pitchers develop at the end of the leaves in shades of red, green, or mottled patterns to attract their unsuspecting prey. What makes these plants truly remarkable is their ability to extract much-needed nitrogen from these captured insects. In the nutrient-poor equatorial soil where they thrive, this vital element is often lacking. To entice their victims into the pitchers' depths, Nepenthes emit odorous substances that lure them closer. Within each pitcher lies an intricate network of thousands of microscopic fibers and a sticky fluid containing digestive enzymes. This unique combination ensures that any insect unfortunate enough to fall into its grasp becomes a source of nourishment for the plant. Scientists are currently exploring whether these natural liquids can be harnessed as eco-friendly pesticides. By studying Nepenthes' enzyme-rich secretions and coloration adaptations, researchers aim to develop innovative solutions for pest control without harming our delicate ecosystems. Through Sheila Terry's lens, we are reminded once again of nature's ingenuity and how even seemingly ordinary plants can hold extraordinary secrets waiting to be unlocked by scientific exploration.
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