The Carnivorous Necessity

Ashley Sundin

Peter Anthony Saldana

Star Enquist

Summary:

In this project we will be testing the effects of different feeding quantities on Drosera capensis. We will do this by testing 3 different scenarios (3 specimens each) in which one is given no  flightless fruit flies, one which is given the “average” amount of fruit flies (this quantity to be determined through research), and a final scenario in which the plant is over-fed (also to be determined through research). We will be using a digital camera to record the movement of Drosera capensis as it consumes its prey.

Introdution/Project Background

We chose to have Drosera capensis as our specimen because of a dispute in the eating necessity of this particular plant. One of us claims that Drosera capensis does not need to eat insects it merely can and does. One of us disagrees. We formed a group because we were all curious of the answer. It should be noted that our group has a sister group that is studying the feeding habits of Dionaea muscipula. At the end of the quarter we plan to compare and contrast our research with one another to better understand the habits of carnivorous plants (particularly ones with thigmonastic movement).

Methods

We are controlling the amount of flies consumed by using flightless fruit flies. In addition we are controlling the humidity, light exposure, and temperature. In addition all of our specimens are all offspring from the same plant.

Results

We currently have no expected results other than there will be a significant difference in plant health (measured by leaf color/ structure, presence of mold, and size of plant) when comparing the health between senarios.

Refrences

none yet!