How Does the Venus Flytrap Digest Flies?
The Venus flytrap, Dionaea muscipula, is perhaps the best known carnivorous or meat-eating plant in the world. But the plant eats in two ways: by photosynthesis and by absorbing the dissolved remains of insects caught in its leaves. Does this Spark an idea?
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Significance
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The trap is two connected leaves fringed with long spines. Inside of the trap are three to six hairlike thin leaves. If more than one of these hairs are moved within 20 seconds, the plant automatically closes around the insect inside.
Process
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When the insect is secure, the Venus flytrap secretes digestive juices that slowly dissolve the prey. These juices come from glands on the leaf surface. These acids are strong enough to kill any stray bacteria or fungus spores that could harm the plant.
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Time Frame
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Digesting an insect like a fly is a slow process for the Venus flytrap. It can take anywhere from 5 to 12 days in order to complete its meal, according to Scientific American. The plant absorbs any excess digestive acid and then reopens.
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