TED-Ed: Kenny Coogan: The wild world of carnivorous plants

The video explores the fascinating world of carnivorous plants, which have evolved unique mechanisms to trap and digest prey. These plants thrive in nutrient-poor environments by supplementing their diet with insects and other small creatures. The video details the trapping methods of various carnivorous plants, including the pitcher plant, sundew, corkscrew plant, bladderwort, Venus flytrap, and butterwort, highlighting their adaptations and survival strategies.

What is a key reason carnivorous plants have evolved to consume prey?

• To survive in nutrient-poor soils

• To increase their size

• To compete with animals for food

• To attract more pollinators

How does the sundew plant capture its prey?

• By using a snapping mechanism

• By drowning them in a liquid pool

• By trapping them in a labyrinth

• By secreting a sticky substance

What unique feature helps the corkscrew plant trap its prey?

• A pool of digestive enzymes

• A labyrinth of roots

• A snapping jaw

• Sticky tentacles

Which carnivorous plant is known for its rapid trapping mechanism?

• Sundew

• Pitcher plant

• Bladderwort

• Butterwort

How does the butterwort plant avoid capturing pollinators?

• By using a narcotic nectar

• By having long flower stalks

• By closing its leaves quickly

• By secreting a sticky substance