Category: Venus Flytrap

It is usually straightforward to differentiate animals from plants and vice-versa. However, many people get confused with Venus flytraps or any other carnivorous plants. People are typically puzzled over the fact that carnivorous plants catch their own prey and eat meat.

Venus flytraps are unique beings, they are carnivorous plants. But, regardless of their predatory nature, Venus flytraps belong to the plant kingdom. They produce their own food through photosynthesis, they grow continuously throughout their life, and they are anchored to the ground.

Now that you know that Venus flytraps are plants, we will describe the reasoning of this classification. Many factors contribute to this designation, such as:

• Feeding process
• Reproduction
• Movement
• Cellular structure
• Growth
• Response to stimuli

Feeding Process

Plants can generate their own food through the photosynthesis process. During this process, plants utilize sunlight to synthesize food from carbon and water. Animals, on the other hand, depend on plants for their nutrition. Some animals are herbivores and consume plants directly. Others consume other animals or beings that exist thanks to plants.

Venus flytraps catch bugs with their traps and digest them with enzymes, but they consume insects as a supplement to their diet. Generally, Venus flytraps grow using photosynthesis.

Venus flytraps produce their own food by taking energy from sunlight and nutrients from air and soil. Yet, Venus flytraps grow in inferior soil (lacks nutrients). Due to the lack of nutrients in the ground, these plants have evolved to be able to consume small prey and supplement their diet.

The Venus flytrap feeding process is fascinating from a scientific perspective. Also, if you grow Venus flytraps at home, you will definitely be curious and even enjoy feeding your plant!

Here is an article on the feeding process to get more details: How to Feed a Venus Flytrap?

How to Feed a Venus Flytrap?- Live and Dead Prey Options

Reproduction

Plants can reproduce sexually or asexually, depending on the species.

Most animals reproduce sexually and give birth to their young ones. However, some animals like algae reproduce asexually.

Venus flytraps can reproduce sexually and asexually. Like many other plants, Venus flytraps produce flowers for sexual reproduction.

Once a pollinator has transferred pollen from the anther to the stigma, the fertilized flowers produce seeds. Once fertilized, flowers change dramatically. Their color changes; they dry up and die. Then, the seeds are left behind in the remains of the dead flower.

Venus flytraps can also reproduce asexually (only one parent). In this process, the roots of the Venus flytrap extend in the soil and create a bulb root. Then, a new Venus flytrap grows from that bulb. After, you can separate both bulbs and have two independent plants.

Movement

Most animals characterize with constant movement.

Since the day animals are born, animals are in continuous motion, catching prey, hiding from danger, or perhaps searching for suitable habitat.

Plants, on the other hand, stay in one single place. They are rotted to the ground. Then, what about Venus flytraps?

They are anchored to the ground, but they demonstrate swift movements with their traps.

Yes, Venus flytraps exhibit an impressive range of motion. Also, they are very fast in closing those traps. Venus flytraps can close their leaves in just one-tenth of a second.

Even though Venus flytraps have developed the ability to move and catch prey, they can not move from one place to another, like most animals (except sponges and corals) can.

Most plants are capable of movement. They sense light and try to direct themselves to get more sunlight. Other plants adhere to surfaces and slowly climb through walls. But, in the end, the vast majority of plants are not mobile (exceptions: Volvox and Chlamydomonas); they live in one set spot.

Venus flytraps are no different. Still, it is impressive how Venus flytraps have evolved to exhibit extremely fast reaction times that are still not fully understood by botanists.

Cellular Structure

From a cellular perspective, plants and animals are also different. Animal and plant cells are both eukaryotic. However, organelles within the cell vary. For example, chloroplast, cell walls, and plastics are only found in plant cells.

Venus flytraps are plants. Therefore their cellular structure contains all the plant-specific elements.

You might have noticed Venus flytraps exhibit a bring green color. The color is associated with the green color pigment of chlorophyll (vital for photosynthesis).

Growth

Plants grow continuously throughout their whole lifespan. Animals grow for a specified period. Then, their growth stops. Venus flytraps, like all other plants, continue to grow throughout their entire life.

Venus flytraps can live for many years, their lifespan is not defined perfectly, but they are expected to live up to 20 years.

During adulthood, they can reach a size of 5 inches (12.7 cm) in diameter, a foot vertically, and 1-inch long traps. But even then, Venus flytrap plants will shrink and grow through the seasons. Also, their leaves are under constant change. Some wither and new ones spur.

Response to Stimuli

Plants can respond to different stimuli; however, they are not as sensitive as animals. Animals have a full nervous system which is necessary to interact with the environment. Several organs in animals allow them to respond to stimuli rapidly.

But, if plants are not as sensitive, how do Venus flytraps catch their prey so efficiently?

Well, let’s start from the beginning. The Venus flytrap leaves will only activate if they sense motion inside of them. Each trap is made up of two leaves, and each leaf has three hair cells arranged in a triangular pattern.

The trap will only close if something touches the hair cells inside the trap two consecutive times in a short period. Venus flytraps develop the double stimuli requirement to avoid closing due to rain, dirt, or any inanimate object touching the trap.

All in all, the whole plant has not developed a system to react with stimuli. Instead, the leaves in Venus flytrap have evolved into jaw-like structures with sensitive hair cells.

Conclusion

Venus flytraps are not animals; they are plants. Today we explored several factors such as reproduction, cellular structure, and response to stimuli that classify Venus flytraps as plants. However, there are many more characteristics associated with this scientific decision. For example, you could explore their food storage systems or genetics.

Related Questions

What is a Venus flytrap classified as?

Venus flytraps belong to the plant kingdom. They are part of the Droseraceae family, which is the family of carnivorous plants. And the scientific name of Venus flytraps is Dionaea muscipula

Why is a Venus flytrap not an animal?

Venus flytraps are carnivorous plants, they are not animals as they exhibit plant kingdom behaviors and characteristics. Venus flytraps synthesize their own food through photosynthesis.

Their tissue is made up of plant cells with chloroplast, cell walls, and plastics. Also, they grow continuously throughout their life. Venus flytraps do consume bugs, but they only extract key nutrients to supplement their diet.

Are Venus flytraps alive?

Venus flytraps are alive. They are carnivorous plants native to South Carolina and North Carolina in the United States. Currently, due to illegal poaching, the increase in farming and urbanization, and several other factors, Venus flytraps are endangered species.

Venus flytraps only grow naturally in the Carolinas in the United States. But, because of their unique and fascinating nature, people grow them all over the world by mimic their natural habitat. So, do not be surprised if you find a sale of live Venus flytraps anywhere out of the Carolinas.

Sources

• https://biodifferences.com/difference-between-plants-and-animals.html
• https://www.sciencedaily.com/terms/chlorophyll.htm#:~:text=Chlorophyll%20is%20a%20green%20photosynthetic,hence%20its%20intense%20green%20color.
• http://www.plantphysiol.org/content/146/2/694

Growing Venus flytrap does not have to be hard. The basis of taking care of Venus flytraps starts with building a proper setup and a systematic care process. Your main goal is to mimic their original habitat. Venus flytraps are native to South Carolina and North Carolina in the United States. They only grow naturally in those two states. However, it is possible to grow venus flytraps all over the world.

This article contains some essential information to build a Venus flytrap setup and the appropriate care instructions and consideration. Read on and learn more about Venus flytraps.

Elements to Grow Venus Flytraps

In the Carolinas, Venus flytraps grow with an abundance of sunlight in humid terrain, which lacks nutrients. Before you build a setup for your plants, make sure to go over this list of essential elements.

Important Elements

Light: These carnivorous plants need an abundance of light. Venus flytraps require 12 hours of sunlight every day. They can live under partial shade. However, they must always receive at least 4 hours of direct sunlight. If you live in a sunny area, pick a sunny window or balcony, and take advantage of natural light. If your home town lacks natural light, you can always employ artificial lighting. A quick online search can get you in the right direction. But, generally, high output fluorescent lights are suitable for Venus flytraps.

Water: Venus flytraps require a very humid environment. You must water them consistently and never let the soil be dry. Also, you can’t use tap water or any water with salts and minerals (your plant will die). Instead, use rainwater, distilled water, or revert osmosis water.

Soil: The optimal ground for Venus flytraps is nutrient-free and with good drainage. There are many specialized carnivorous plant blend soils in the market. These soils are not appropriate for other plants due to their lack of nutrients, but they are perfect for Venus flytraps. You can buy the soil or make it yourself. Most growers utilize a mix of these components: Long-fibered sphagnum moss, sphagnum peat moss, sand, and perlite.

Elements to Avoid

Fertilizer: There is no need to fertilize Venus flytraps. Venus flytraps can not handle minerals. Fertilizers can weaken and eventually kill Venus flytraps.

Stress: Avoid stress due to constant movement and rough handling. Place your plant in a strategic area where it won’t need to be under continuous movement. Movement can produce strain and cause leaves to wither. Also, do not manually play with the plant and activate the plant’s traps. Venus flytraps utilize a lot of energy controlling those traps.

Extreme temperatures: Venus flytraps need sunlight, but they can dry out if they are placed under intense heat (be careful with that extremely hot window!). Also, during winter, Venus flytraps should experience colder weather, but they should not freeze completely.

Build the Setup

Now, you are ready to build a layout, make sure you have the essential elements: light (natural or artificial), water (distilled, revert osmosis or rain), Venus flytrap soil, your plants (or seeds), and a pot. The best containers for Venus flytraps are made of plastic, they are proportional to the plant’s size, and they have multiple holes.

Let’s assume you are starting to grow Venus flytraps, and you have bought the plants (probably a few years old). First, start by soaking the soil in the mineral-free water. Once the ground is saturated, add it in the pot. Now, dig a hole with enough spacing for the plant’s roots and center bulb and introduce it in the soil.

Venus flytraps have a central stem that connects to the underground roots. From the center, branches spur to become traps. The bottom center bulb is of a light pinkish color. All that area must be underground. Place your plant carefully and cover the roots and center bulb with the soil. In the end, only the green parts of your plant should be visible. Make sure the soil is still moist and place your Venus flytrap under appropriate lighting.

It can be challenging to keep the soil wet at all times; for that reason, I recommend using a saucer or plate to hold extra water. Like the image below, you can place the pot in a shallow container and fill the container with water. Then, you will have water reserves, and your soil is less likely to dry out.

If you have multiple plants, do not overcrowd one pot with various plants—instead, plant one Venus flytrap per cup. Once your plant has outgrown the container, you can consider repotting.

Growing Venus Flytraps from Seeds

Growing Venus flytraps from seeds will allow you to experience the full growth cycle of Venus flytraps. The process of Harvesting Venus flytraps from seeds is similar to the method described above. First, you will need the same necessary materials: light (natural or artificial), water (distilled, revert osmosis or rain), Venus flytrap soil, seeds, and a pot.

Since you will be working with seeds, you must be thorough in preparing the soil. The soil must be completely soaked in water. You know it is ready when you press the ground and water emerges (like when you press a sponge full of water). Then, go ahead and sow the seeds in the soil. Do your best to sprinkle them separate enough, so they have enough space to germinate. If you have multiple pots and enough soil, consider dividing your seeds into various batches. After, you can place your containers in different strategic places with enough lighting. With that method, you have higher chances of getting it right!

After a couple of weeks, you should be able to spot the first germinations. Be patient and continue to maintain your seeds on wet soil and under appropriate lighting and temperature. Eventually, you will be able to harvest tiny Venus flytraps. Then, you can transfer your new Venus flytraps to individual pots and continue to care for them as we have learned.

The only step missing to complete the whole lifecycle of Venus flytraps is to produce the seeds. You can harvest Venus flytraps seeds after pollinating their flowers. We have some useful introductory information if you are interested in collecting your own seeds. Read the article below to learn about Venus flytrap flowers and the fertilization process:

Venus Flytrap Flower Guide – Should I cut them off?

Other consideration when growing a Venus flytrap

Feeding: Venus flytraps get nutrients from the insects they capture and consume since the soil they live in is very poor. When you grow Venus flytraps, you must ensure they are catching and consuming bugs. If they are growing outdoors, they should be able to catch their prey. But, if you are growing them indoors, you will have to take care of the feeding. Learn about the feeding process with this article: How to Feed a Venus Flytrap?

How to Feed a Venus Flytrap?- Live and Dead Prey Options

Dormancy: In their natural habitat, Venus flytraps undergo a dormancy process every year (3 – 4 months). During late fall or winter, when temperatures drop, Venus flytraps will go dormant. Your plants might chanrge drastically during this period. First-time owners sometimes think their plans ae dying, but they just dormant. Even though you can skip dormancy without immediately killing your plant, the process is a crucial stage for the plant’s development. For that reason, you should make sure your Venus flytrap experiences dormancy every year. Here is more information on Venus flytrap dormancy and how to achieve it: The Complete Venus Flytrap Care Instruction.

The stages of growing Venus Flytrap

The germination process takes 1 to 5 weeks. Then, the young Venus flytraps continue to grow for several years. Venus flytraps reach maturity after 2 to 4 years. During winter, Venus flytraps experience dormancy. During such a period, they reduce in size. After, during spring, Venus flytraps recover their size and start to flourish.

Ultimately, how big can a Venus flytrap get?

All science fiction movies aside, Venus flytraps are not large plants Horizontally, the expected mature size of Venus flytraps is 5 inches (12.7 cm) in diameter. Vertically, Venus flytraps can be as tall as a foot (30 cm). And, the size of each trap can reach a size of one inch (2.5 cm) long. Venus flytraps are not impressive due to their size, but to their unique trapping mechanism that has captivated people for ages.

So, is growing Venus flytrap hard?

Personally, I do not believe growing Venus flytraps is particularly hard. I struggle to keep succulents or cacti alive. Most of the time is because I water them too much or too little. Venus flytraps, on the other hand, require a specific type of water (nutrient-free), but aside from that, you know how much to water them. The answer is always: “a lot.” If you are a first-time grower, focus on building a proper environment for your plants with all the right elements and learn about their needs. Also, be attentive to sudden changes in your Venus flytrap and research if you are unsure about the solution.

Sources:

• https://www.fws.gov/southeast/wildlife/plants/venus-flytrap/
• D’Amato, P. (2013). The Savage Garden. Berkeley, Unites States: Ten Speed Press.
• https://carnivorousplantnursery.com/blogs/potting-carnivorous-plant/how-to-pot-a-carnivorous-plant

Venus flytraps are native to the United States east coast. They grow naturally in the states of North Carolina and South Carolina. However, people cultivate Venus flytraps all over the world. To be a successful Venus flytrap grower, you must try to mimic their natural habitat. Venus flytraps grow with an abundance of sunlight in very humid terrain, which lacks nutrients. As a fellow carnivorous plant grower, I would like to share my research and experience from growing Venus flytraps. I hope you enjoy this complete guide to Venus flytrap care!

Venus Flytrap Care

The following sections cover vital considerations for Venus flytrap care:

Light

Venus flytraps require a lot of sunlight. They need about 12 hours of sun a day. However, Venus flytraps can live in partial shade, but they must receive 4 – 5 hours of direct sunlight. For people living in sunny areas, the light requirement shouldn’t be a problem. However, some people live in darker areas. “Can you still grow carnivorous plants? Yes. In fact, even if you live in a dark basement or a densely shaded house in a redwood forest, carnivorous plants can thrive even in the darkest corners. The solution is to grow them under artificial lighting” (D’Amato, 2013). There is a wide variety of plant light options in the market. High Output fluorescent lights are suitable for Venus flytraps.

Water

Venus flytraps need a lot of water. Never let the soil dry out. The ground needs to be moist at all times. Also, you can’t water your plant with tap water (it has too many minerals and salts). Instead, use rainwater or distilled water.

Feeding

Venus flytraps need certain elements from the insects they consume because the soil they live in lacks nutrients. Venus flytraps can survive several months without catching prey. However, they won’t thrive without proper feeding.

When you grow Venus flytraps outdoors, they can catch prey on their own. But, when you grow them indoors, you will have to take care of the feeding. There are a lot of menu options to feed your plant. Venus flytraps eat a variety of bugs, such as crickets, beetles, grasshoppers, spiders, slugs, flies, and ants. You must be very careful in the size of the insect you are using. The bug should not be larger than 1/3 of the size of the trap. It is better to opt for a smaller bug than using one that is too big. If the prey is too large, the leaf won’t be able to digest it. Then, the trap will wither and die.

A common mistake is to overfeed your plant. For best results, only feed your Venus flytrap once every two to four weeks. Also, you only need to feed one trap on the entire plant at a time.

For more information, read our complete guide on how to feed a Venus flytrap:

How to Feed a Venus Flytrap?- Live and Dead Prey Options

Soil

Venus flytraps require nutrient-free soil with drainage. Most growers utilize a combination of these components to create a Venus flytrap friendly soil: Long-fibered sphagnum moss, sphagnum peat moss, sand, and perlite. You can find all of these components in any gardening store. Or, you can purchase a specialized carnivorous plant blend. Peat and Sphagnum moss hold water to provide the high humidity/moist environment we need. And, perlite and sand help with drainage and loosen up the soil.

Fertilizer

Fertilizing is an essential step when caring about most plants. However, Venus flytraps are unique in this aspect. There is no need to fertilize them. Venus flytraps can not handle minerals (hence the distilled water and nutrient-free soil). All in all, avoid fertilizing your plant. Fertilizers can weaken and eventually kill Venus flytraps. If you are concern about your plant not getting enough nutrients, focus on proper feeding rather than fertilizing.

Flowering

During the spring months, Venus flytraps grow flowers. Thick cylindrical structures spur from the center of the plant and grow to become white flower bundles. First-time growers tend to get excited with the spur of flowers and let them flourish. However, the advice for amateur growers is to cut the flower stalks as soon as possible.

Venus flytraps spend a lot of energy producing flowers for reproduction. After flowering, Venus flytraps are weak for weeks or even months. Novice growers should not take the risk to grow flowers and weaken their plant. Instead, they should consider cutting the flowers off when they spur. A single plant attempts to grow several flowers during a season. Therefore, you should keep close attention to your Venus flytrap during spring.

For more information, you can read our Venus Flytrap Flower Guide:

Venus Flytrap Flower Guide – Should I cut them off?

Black Leaves

Venus flytraps grow five to ten traps at a time. Older traps eventually turn to a dark black color and whiter. This process is entirely normal. So, do not worry if some of your traps are turning black. Also, do not chop off traps when they start turning black. When the trap starts turning black, it is still an essential part of the plant for photosynthesis. Instead, wait until the leaves whiter entirely. Then, carefully cut them out. The photo below shows a couple of Venus flytraps growing in the wild. If you look carefully, you can notice the dead black leaves on the edges of the plant. Again, those are entirely normal.

When should you worry about black leaves?

Generally, a new leaf should grow for every dead leaf. Start to worry or take action if you notice an increase in black leaves on your Venus flytrap. If the plant is not entering dormancy (read below), then there must be something wrong. Review the other care item such as water, soil, and light and make sure your setup is proper. Also, sometimes Venus flytraps lose leaves due to stress, which can be caused by constant movement, excessive heat, or recent repotting.

Dormancy

In the wild, Venus flytraps undergo a dormancy period every year. During late fall or winter, Venus flytraps will go dormant. Their dormancy period is analogous to animal hibernation. The plant needs to rest for about three months. After the dormancy period, in the spring, Venus flytraps return to their original state and continue to grow and develop.

The physical changes on Venus flytraps due to dormancy are very noticeable. When temperatures start to drop, Venus flytraps go dormant. During dormancy, several leaves wither, and the plant reduces in size. First-time growers sometimes panic when they notice the changes. But, this process is normal, and it is a crucial stage for the plant’s development.

Natural Dormancy

Venus flytraps have evolved to go dormant during the winter. They do it naturally in North Carolina and South Carolina when the temperatures start to drop (usually sometime between October and December). Depending on your geographical location, you might be able to provide the appropriate conditions for your plant to go dormant.

Venus flytraps require a dormancy temperature between 45 F (8 C) and freezing (32 F / 0 C) [1]. If you live in a geographical location that archives those temperatures, consider placing your plants in a porch, garage, or basement (and don’t forget about all the other Venus flytrap care instructions, including lightning). Then, leave your Venus flytraps in that cold weather for a few months. During that period, you should be careful with extreme temperatures. Do not let your plant freeze! Finally, once dormancy is over, slowly introduce your plant to warmer weather. You will notice a dramatic change in appearance. Venus flytraps go from looking almost dead during dormancy to flourishing at its finest during spring.

Induced Dormancy

Some locations never experience a fall or winter temperatures below 50 F, or perhaps, they do achieve cold temperatures, but only for a couple of weeks. In those locations, it can be almost impossible to reach the natural dormancy state of Venus flytraps. As a last resort, you can induce dormancy by placing your plants in the fridge. There is a whole process associated with this method of inducing dormancy. Read the article below for the complete detail on the refrigerator dormancy method.

Refrigerator dormancy: Winter is Coming! A Guide to Venus Flytrap Dormancy

Skip Dormancy

Yes, it is possible to skip dormancy. However, it is not healthy. Your Venus flytrap won’t die right away, but its life span will reduce significantly. A healthy Venus flytrap can live for 20 years or more. But, if you skip dormancy, your plant will die within a couple of years.

Final Thoughts

It is easy to make mistakes when you are a beginner or first-time Venus flytrap grower. Becoming a successful carnivorous plant grower requires patience, practice, and attention to detail. Get started by learning about your plant. Then, build a proper setup considering all care instructions. Later on, while your plant grows, be attentive to sudden changes in climate and your plant’s behavior. I hope you enjoyed these Venus flytrap care instructions. Best of luck growing large and healthy Venus flytraps!

Related Questions: Venus Flytrap Care

How hard is it to keep a Venus flytrap alive?

It is not difficult to keep Venus flytraps alive. The starting point is to build a setup with the appropriate soil and a lot of sunlight and water (distilled). After the installation is ready, then, focus on avoiding these common mistakes to keep your plant healthy:

• Do not overfeed your plant: Only feed your plant once every 2 to 4 weeks.
• Do not feed human food to your plant: Venus flytraps are designed to consume insects. Other food might take too long to digest and create a bacterial infection.
• Avoid playing with your plant’s traps: Venus flytraps use a lot of energy controlling and activating those traps.
• Do not fertilize: Venus flytraps prefer nutrient-free environments.
• Skip the flowering process: Cut the flower stalks early to let your plant mature and grow early.

Can you keep a Venus flytrap indoors?

Yes, it is possible to grow Venus flytraps indoors. The care instructions remain the same, but you should be careful with some details. Here are a few important considerations:

• Feeding: You will need to take care of feeding your plant since it won’t be able to catch prey.
• Lighting: Find a bright spot indoors where your plant can receive 12 hours of sunlight. If you do not have access to natural light, you will need artificial light.
• Water: Same as outdoors (utilize distiller/rainwater).
• Dormancy: Weight your options between natural and induced dormancy
  • Let your plant go dormant naturally in temperature between 45 F (8 C) and freezing. For example, you can place your plant in a cold porch, shed, or garage for the winter.
  • If you naturally do not have access to such temperatures, consider induced dormancy. Skipping the dormancy period will eventually kill your plant.
• Stress: Place your plant in a tranquil area without constant movement. Movement can produce strain and ultimately cause your plant to lose leaves and deteriorate. For example, avoid placing your plant in a window that will constantly be opening and closing or a window with a curtain that always touches your plant.

Sources:

• D’Amato, P. (2013). The Savage Garden. Berkeley, Unites States: Ten Speed Press.
• https://libguides.nybg.org/c.php?g=654975&p=4597429
• [1] https://www.ndsu.edu/pubweb/chiwonlee/plsc211/student%20papers/articles02/dhodgson/dhodgson.html

As a fellow pokemon fan, I get really excited when I see (or hopefully catch!) a pokemon that resembles my favorite animal or plant. If you like carnivorous plants and pokemon, I have good news: you can catch carnivorous plant pokemon! But can you catch a Venus flytrap pokemon? Yes. Venus flytraps are fascinating plants, and it comes to no surprise that the pokemon franchise took them as inspiration for one pokemon: Carnivine. And it is not the only one! Many other pokemon resemble some exotic carnivorous plants.

Carnivine

Carnivine is a grass-type pokemon. It was introduced to the public in 2006, with generation IV. This pokemon is one of a kind. It has unique looks from its terrifying jaw to its tentacle-like arms. If you would like to catch Carnivine in a pokemon game, make sure to look for it during sunny and bright weather. Then, you will have the highest spawning rate. Also, if you are playing Pokemon Go, take into consideration that Carnivine is a regional exclusive pokemon. It can only be found in specific locations: Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia [1].

Similarities: Carnivine vs Venus flytraps

Carnivine has many characteristics and qualities that resemble Venus flytraps:

• The traps: Carnivine has a jaw like trap. The trap is used to catch bug type pokemon and to attack adversaries. Carnivine has sweet saliva inside its trap that attacks prey. Such a mechanism is the same Venus flytraps employ. Venus flytraps produce sweet nectar to lure their prey.
• Diet: Carnivine is a bug catcher pokemon. Similarly to venus flytraps, it lures bugs prey into its trap and then captures them. In the pokemon series, they show Carnivine consuming a wide variety of bug type pokemon, including Ledyba. In real life, venus flytraps also have a diverse diet. They consume crickets, beetles, grasshoppers, spiders, slugs, flies, ants, and worms.
• Color: The color of Carnivine is spot on (just like this picture on the right). Carnivine has green leaves, and the inside of its traps is reddish. Venus flytraps are naturally of those exact colors. However, growers have developed other colors of Venus flytraps over the years. Now, you can buy red and yellow Venus flytraps.
• Location: In Pokemon Go, Carnivine is a region exclusive pokemon. It can only be found in a few southern States of the United States: Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia [1]. Even though the States are not entirely accurate, they are very close. You can grow Venus flytraps almost anywhere in the world (if you have the right set up). However, Venus flytraps are only native to South Carolina and North Carolina in the United States.

Differences: Carnivine vs Venus flytraps

Now, let’s explore a few key differences between Carnivine and Venus flytraps

• Time to digest: Once Carnivine has caught a victim, it continues to digest it. Carnivine takes a whole day to digest its prey. However, Venus flytraps take a lot longer! A Venus flytrap takes several days, and sometimes up to two weeks to consume a meal.
• The tentacles: Carnivine has a unique characteristic. It uses its tentacle arms to clamp itself to trees and wait for its prey. In reality, Venus flytraps do not have tentacles or any other type of leaf. All the leaves in a Venus flytrap are part of a trap. The is no other structure growing out of Venus flytraps, except for flowers. Venus flytraps grow flowers; however, those only grow during a few months in the spring. If you would like to learn about Venus flytrap flowers, we have a full article for you.
• The trap aperture: Yes, Carnivine’s trap is very similar to Venus flytraps, but there is a crucial difference. Carnivine opens its mouth at a 180-degree angle. Venus flytraps, also keep their traps open, but at a much lower angle (less than 90-degrees).
• Size: The size and weight of pokemon vary greatly. Carnivine specifically has a human-like size, which differs significantly from venus flytraps. Venus flytraps are small plants that grow in the forest floors of North and South Carolina. Carnivine represents a fictitiously giant type of Venus flytrap. The idea to make Carnivine so large might have come from the ongoing joke of making carnitine bite James’ head. If you are not familiar with the reference, the video below shows what I am talking about.

Beyond the Venus flytrap Pokemon

Other Pokemon, aside from Carnivine, are inspired by Carnivorous Plants. Bellsprout is one of the most well-known examples. It might not be as apparent with Bellsprout, but as it evolves to Weepinbell, and finally to Victreebell, it becomes more apparent. Pitcher plants inspire all of them. Pitcher plants are another type of carnivorous plant. Its pitcher-like shape characterizes them. The picture below shows several of them growing in the wild.

Bulbapedia describes this pokemon evolution family in detail. The excerpt below explains the prey luring and catching mechanism from Victreebel. And many of the details relate closely to Pitcher plants. Pitcher plants use sweet nectar to attract insects. Once a bug has fallen inside one of its pitcher-structures. The plant will start decomposing the victim very slowly.

“Covering Victreebel’s mouth is a leaf with a long, brown, yellow-tipped vine growing out of it. The vine is flicked to mimic an animal in order to attract prey. Victreebel also produces a sweet scent to further aid in luring its victims. Acid that has dissolved numerous prey animals becomes sweeter and even more effective at attracting prey.” Bulbapedia

We hope you enjoyed this comparison article between Venus flytraps and Carnivine. Best of luck catching Carnivine!

Sources:

• [1] https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2019-06-03-pokemon-go-region-exclusive-pokemon-locations-list
• [2] https://bulbapedia.bulbagarden.net/wiki/Victreebel_(Pok%C3%A9mon)
• https://pokemon.fandom.com/wiki/Carnivine
• https://pokemon.fandom.com/wiki/Weepinbell

Venus flytraps are fascinating plants that spark the curiosity of kids and adults alike. There is so much to learn about these pants, from its habitat to its evolutionary origin. This article explores 11 fun Venus flytrap facts for kids (or adults). We hope you enjoy learning about Venus flytraps!

11 Venus Flytrap Facts for Kids

1.-Venus flytraps are carnivorous plants, and their leaves are unique

Venus flytraps are the most famous carnivorous plant. They are cataloged as carnivorous plants because they eat meat, and their diet consists mostly of insects.

The image below shows a few Venus flytrap plants with several branches. Each of their branches has two leaves, which form a trap. The traps produce sweet nectar to lure insects. The reddish interior of the trap contains the nectar. Also, there are sensory hairs inside the trap that detect movement. When a bug enters a trap, it will very likely hit the sensory hairs a few times. Then, the trap will close rapidly and capture its prey.

2.- Venus flytraps have a diverse diet

The name “Venus flytrap” can be misleading. It seems to suggest that Venus flytraps feed themselves with flies exclusively. Yet, Venus flytraps eat a variety of bugs, such as ants, flies, spiders, beetles, and slugs. Also, Venus flytraps can eat small rodents, lizards, or frogs (if they can catch them!).

3.- Their digestion takes a long time

Once a Venus flytrap has caught an insect in its trap, it will start the digestion process. The leaves produce enzymes that decompose the victim. As the prey decomposes, the plant absorbs its nutrients. The Venus flytrap digestion process is unique, but it is not fast. It takes one to two weeks for a plant to consume one insect entirely. Nevertheless, Venus flytraps are in no rush; they can live for several months without catching a meal.

4.-Venus flytraps are native to South Carolina and North Carolina, in the United States

Venus flytraps are native to the US east coast, specifically to the states of North and South Carolina. Because Venus flytraps are very popular plants, people grow them and cultivate them all over the world. However, the plants are only native to the Carolinas. There, Venus flytraps grow with an abundance of sunlight in very humid terrain, which in most cases, lacks nutrients.

5.- Venus flytraps are an endangered species

Unfortunately, Venus flytraps are endangered. Their original habitat has been changing due to an increase in urbanization and agricultural development.

Venus flytraps are fascinating plants, and people like buying them. It is ok to buy Venus flytraps from responsible growers. However, some irresponsible vendors extract Venus flytraps directly from their natural habitat. This process is called poaching, and it is illegal because it threatens the survival of an endangered species[3].

If you would like to grow a Venus flytrap, you have a few options. You can grow them from seeds or buy them from environmentally conscious sources. But, do not collect Venus flytraps from the wild; you would be hurting the species.

6.- Venus flytraps are the State Carnivorous Plant of North Carolina

In 2005, the Venus flytrap became the State Carnivorous plant in North Carolina[1]. It is not common for a state to declare a State Carnivorous Plant; actually, North Carolina was the first and only one so far. We hope this initiative to make the Venus flytrap a state symbol will create consciousness between people and promote the conservation of this marvelous at-risk species.

7.- Venus flytraps have flowers

Just like most plants, Venus flytraps flower in the spring. Their flowers grow in bundles, and they are white.

The flowers grow tall. A lot taller than the traps. Then, pollinators such as bees and butterflies can collect nectar from the flowers without getting caught by the traps.

8.- Venus flytraps go dormant during the winter

During late fall and winter, they go dormant. The dormancy period of Venus flytraps is similar to hibernation for animals. When fall is coming to an end and temperatures start to drop, Venus flytraps go dormant. Their leaves wither, and the plant reduces in size. The physical changes due to dormancy are very pronounced. Some Venus flytrap owners might even think their plant is dying. However, a few months later, the plant will finish dormancy and flourish in the spring.

9.- Lots of Venus flytraps references in movies and video games

Venus flytraps are commonly featured in movies and video games. You might remember the Piranha Plant in Mario Bros video games. They have a high resemblance to carnivorous plants, especially to Venus flytraps. Also, there are a few Pokemon that look like carnivorous plants: Carnivine and Victreebel.

The 2008 movie “Journey to the Center of the Earth” also features Venus flytraps. They used the Venus flytrap for inspiration, but they created an exaggerated human-size version.

10.- Charles Darwin was fascinated with Venus flytraps

Charles Darwin was an English scientist in the 1800s. He made crucial contributions to the fields of biology and geology. He was best known for his theory of evolution by Natural Selection. Darwin referred to Venus flytraps as “the most wonderful plant in the world.” Considering Darwin studied thousands of different plants and animals, he must have really been impressed by Venus flytraps. [2]

11.- Venus flytraps can’t hurt humans

Venus flytraps are safe for humans. Their traps might seem scary when looked at closely, but they are not strong or big enough to hurt you if you stick your finger inside one. But, try to avoid triggering the traps with your fingers. Venus flytraps weaken every tie they use energy, and controlling those traps takes significant amounts of energy. Instead, consider feeding a Venus flytrap and watching the traps get to work!

We hope you enjoyed these 11 Venus flytrap facts for kids! Feel free to browse around our site for more information on Venus flytraps. And for more facts on Venus fly traps, check out this extended list.

Sources:

• [1] https://statesymbolsusa.org/symbol-official-item/north-carolina/state-plant/venus-flytrap
• [2] https://www.britannica.com/biography/Charles-Darwin
• [3]https://therevelator.org/venus-flytrap-poaching/

Are you interested in feeding a Venus flytrap? It is amusing! Here is a guide on how to feed a Venus flytrap:

How to Feed a Venus Flytrap?- Live and Dead Prey Options