Sundews grow long sticky hairs that trap insects

There are over 150 species of Sundews (Drosera) found around the world. These plants typically live in bogs and they have a special quality that makes them OMG worthy: they are carnivorous.

drosera rotundifolia, sundew — Close up of the hairs on a round-leaved sundew (Drosera rotundifolia). Photo Credit: Petr Dlouhý

Sundews live off the insects that they trap in their hairs. These long hairs produce sticky goo that when an insect touches them, it will get stuck! Once the plant senses that it has trapped some prey, it rolls up the edges of its leaves and slowly releases digestive juices. The insect starts to decompose and the Sundew gets a tasty snack.

drosera rupicola — Drosera rupicola. Photo Credit: Jan Wieneke

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