How does a Venus flytrap catch prey?
Venus flytrap is adapted to nutrient-poor wetlands and catches small arthropods with two-lobed leaf traps.
Structure, development and life cycle
Repeated touches to trigger hairs within a short interval create electrical signals and rapidly close the trap. Requiring more than one touch reduces false triggers such as rain. Continued prey movement tightens the trap and digestive secretions release nutrients. The plant still gets energy from photosynthesis; prey mainly supplements nitrogen and minerals.
Growing, uses and cautions
It needs a mineral-poor acidic medium, very bright light and low-mineral rain or purified water. Tap-water salts may accumulate and normal pot fertilizer can burn roots. Triggering traps for entertainment wastes energy. This North American species requires winter dormancy and should be purchased from legal cultivation rather than wild collection.