Everyone has heard of the Venus fly trap, which is a deadly insect killer and carnivorous plant. Common sundews and pitcher plants are also other types of known plants that feast on bugs, which are essentially a type of meat and protein, making them carnivores. However, this type of vegetation is actually pretty widespread, with numerous species that most people have overlooked or simply do not know even exist. Here are 5 totally obscure plants that are carnivorous. Some eat flesh, and some eat even weirder foods.
5. Sun Pitchers
5. Sun Pitchers
Sun Pitchers, otherwise known as Heliamphora, are not related to other pitcher plants, though they do appear similar in style and appearance. They produce a digestive enzyme known for breaking down their prey, including bugs.
4. Protocarnivorous Bromeliads
4. Protocarnivorous Bromeliads
Protocarnivorous Bromeliads are a common house-plant that many people may have heard of by now. Their leaves come together in a central basin-like structure that is capable of holding water. Insects drown in said liquid, and the plant then consumes them.
3. Ant Pitcher
3. Ant Pitcher
The Ant Pitcher, which is another type of pitcher plant, will lure unsuspecting insects into their funnel-like structure to consume them. These “fanged” species work alongside a special type of ant that can submerge itself inside of the water of the flower.
2. Snapping Sundews
2. Snapping Sundews
Snapping Sundews have a wild appearance, and are actually dangerous, easygoing killers. They let out droplets of a glue-like substance to capture their prey before curling around the bug in almost slow-motion.
1. Roridula
1. Roridula
The Roridula is probably the biggest carnivorous plant in the entire world. They can sometimes span six feet in length and height, and are covered in glue-tipped tendrils that capture unsuspecting bugs that land on them.