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Fly caught in sundew, SEM

Fly caught in sundew, SEM


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Fly caught in sundew, SEM

Fly trapped in sundew. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a fly trapped on a leaf of Cape sundew (Drosera capensis). Sundew ensnares its prey by means of tentacles (purple) topped with globular sticky glands (red). Glue strands (lower left & right) simultaneously attract and hold the insect fast. Subsequent struggle stimulates the tentacles, which slowly move in, entangling the insect. Enzymes are secreted to digest the insects body. This mechanism has evolved to supplement the diet of the sundew, which grows in mineral-deficient environments such as uplands and bogs. Magnification: x30 when printed 10cm wide

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6290761

© DR JEREMY BURGESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Cape Carnivore Carnivorous Plants Caught Drosera Capensis Horizontal Insect Eating Insectivore Insectivorous Prey Sun Dew Trap Trapped


EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the intricate and deadly relationship between a fly and a Cape sundew. The vibrant colors of this scanning electron micrograph (SEM) bring to life the fascinating mechanism by which the sundew ensnares its prey. The purple tentacles, adorned with red globular sticky glands, act as an irresistible trap for unsuspecting insects. In this particular image, a helpless fly finds itself caught on one of these lethal leaves. Glue strands emanating from both sides simultaneously attract and hold the insect fast, sealing its fate. As the trapped fly struggles in vain to escape, it unknowingly stimulates the tentacles surrounding it. Slowly but surely, these tentacles move in closer and entangle their prey further. To aid in digestion, enzymes are secreted by the sundew to break down the unfortunate insect's body. This remarkable adaptation has evolved to supplement the diet of Cape sundews that thrive in mineral-deficient environments like uplands and bogs. By capturing insects like this fly, they acquire essential nutrients necessary for survival. With a magnification of x30 when printed 10cm wide, this SEM print allows us to appreciate nature's incredible intricacies at an intimate level. It serves as a reminder of how carnivorous plants like Drosera capensis have developed unique strategies to secure their meals in unconventional ways – forever fascinating botanists and zoologists alike.

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