He shares:
"When we think of a carnivorous meat eating species, a plant isn't at all what you might expect. However, in the case of the Sundew, that's exactly what you get."
Mark adds, "Sundews have evolved to thrive in northern bogs,
moist areas of generally poor soil. In these habitats where nutrients
are lacking, insects are quite common and are on the menu. In my opinion, this has to be one of the most fascinating
examples of the adaptability of the natural world. The Sundew is the
last place a fly will ever feed when attracted to the red coloration of
the plant as well as the sweet-tasting beads of liquid at the end of the
hair-like bristles. Call it a "fatal attraction." Once trapped in the
sticky beads, struggling only assists the plant as the leaf curls
around its prey sealing its fate. If you would like to read about more amazing adventures
exploring and protecting the natural world, please join me at http://www.
Did you know?
- The Sundew is a "circumboreal" species, meaning it can be found at similar regions surrounding the Earth.
- They get their name from the beads of liquid on the leaves that looks similar to the morning "dew."
- Sundews often share their habitat with the Pitcher Plant, another species of carnivorous plant (tough place to be a fly).
- The Sundew species in this film are often called "Round Leaf Sundew."
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