Sarracenia rubra

Sarracenia rubra is a carnivorous plant which attracts prey by secreting nectar, attractive colorations, and sweet scents. Furthermore, Sarracenia rubra can perform photosynthesis as well, because it has chloroplasts in many of the cells.

To attract prey the plant dispenses nectar via the nectar glands located on the upper section of the pitcher lid. There are hairs located on the inner lid which slant downward toward the bottom of the pitcher.

Prey organisms are commonly insects that have been attracted to the nectar of the pitcher plant.   

The prey feeds on the nectar and gradually moves into the pitcher. As the insect moves into the pitcher the hairs and waxy surface make it very difficult for the insect to balance, which causes the prey to fall into the trap. Near the bottom of the pitcher enzymes are released by specialized digestive glands and then absorbed by specific absorption glands at the bottom of the pitcher. The prey settles at the bottom of the pitcher where digestion occurs and it is broken down, resulting in the plant absorbing nutrients.

Honey Bee

Click the link to learn about one of Sarracenia rubra's favorite victims!

Pitcher Plant Parts!

Click the Link to learn supplemental material of the specific names of the pitcher parts!

Adaptations

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