Darwin's Carnivorous Plant Prediction Confirmed by Modern Science
Summary
Scientists have confirmed Charles Darwin’s 150-year-old prediction that some Saxifraga plants can be carnivorous. A study in Nature Communications found that Saxifraga candelabrum traps insects, digests them with phosphatase, and absorbs nitrogen from them.
Key Points
- Modern scientists have confirmed Darwin’s long-standing prediction that certain Saxifraga plants are carnivorous.
- A study in Nature Communications found that Saxifraga candelabrum attracts insects with fragrance, digests them with phosphatase, and absorbs nitrogen from them.
- Isotope labeling showed nitrogen-15 moving from insects into the plant, proving the carnivorous process.
- Researchers say the findings may help identify more flowering plants with hidden carnivorous traits.
