Sundews   GENUS Drosera

Drosera rotundifolia

ell as in cultivation, flies, ants, and spiders are a typical meal for the Venus flytrap.  A nectar band just below the marginal spines creates an irresistible lure for the potential prey.  Because of the stiff spines around the lobe, it is impossible to lick the nectar from outside. 

A tiny spider ature, as well as in cultivation, flies, ants, and spiders are a typical meal for the Venus flytrap.  A nectar band just below the marginal spines creates an irresistible lure for the potential prey.  Because of the stiff spines around the

A spider trapped on the sundew leaf, as seen though the eyes of infra-red photography.

The nectar seeker is forced to position itself between the trap lobes.  Three pairs of innocuous-looking bristles grow on the inner surface of the lobes. The visitor to the Venus' diner has no way of knowing what will precipitate if these sensitive hairs are disturbed.

Introduction  Venus Flytrap  Sundews  Pitcher Plants  Cobra Plant  Butterworts  Bladderworts