Insectivorous

Definition

Insectivorous plants are those that derive some or most of their nutrients from trapping and consuming insects and other small arthropods. These adaptations help them thrive in nutrient-poor environments, especially those with low nitrogen levels.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Insectivorous plants have specialized structures such as sticky surfaces, pitfall traps, or snap traps to capture prey.
2. Examples of insectivorous plants include the Venus flytrap, pitcher plants, and sundews.
3. These plants primarily target insects to supplement their nitrogen intake, which is often deficient in the soils they inhabit.
4. The digestion process involves enzymes breaking down the prey into absorbable nutrients.
5. Insectivorous plants can still photosynthesize and obtain energy through sunlight.

Related terms

Carnivorous Plant: A plant that derives some or most of its nutrients from trapping and consuming animals.

Photosynthesis: The process by which green plants use sunlight to synthesize foods with the aid of chlorophyll.

Enzyme: A protein that acts as a catalyst in biochemical reactions, including those involved in digesting prey in insectivorous plants.