The Curious World of Carnivorous Plants

The Curious World of Carnivorous Plants PDF

Author:

Publisher: Timber Press (OR)

Published: 2007

Total Pages: 224

ISBN-13: 0881927929

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Plants that trap and eat animals: an amazing phenomenon that has inspired awe since before the days of Darwin. The victims may be flies and butterflies, small crustaceans, or even vertebrates the size of rats. Lured into the danger zone by optical, tactile, and olfactory strategies, the prey succomb to ingenious traps and face their doom. But unlike plants that temporarily catch insects for pollination, the true carnivores go considerably further: they digest them for the nutrients they need to survive in extremely inhospitable sites on land and in water. "Drosophyllum lusitanicum" can digest a mosquito within 24 hours. The common butterwort, "Pinguicula vulgaris," digests small snimals within two days; a whole fly will disappear in "Drosera anglica" in four days. This exquisite book, copiously illustrated with closeup photography, provides detailed descriptions--including trapping mechanisms, digestion, and prey--and cultivation information for key species in 17 genera and 10 families. Most notably, it includes the first comprehensive listing of some 630 known carnivorous plant species, described in fascinating detail, with identification history and geographic distribution species by species. Physiological and ecological wonders abound in clear and accessible explanations by four author-scientists who work at the leading edge of research. Anyone captivated by the unearthly beauty of the "flowers of evil" will treasure this stunning, encyclopedic exploration, which also includes animal-trapping mosses and fungi, as well as advice for growing and buying carnivorous plants and an extensive international bibliography. It is an essential reference for hobbyist, naturalist, and collector alike.

The Carnivorous Plants

The Carnivorous Plants PDF

Author: Barrie Edward Juniper

Publisher:

Published: 1989

Total Pages: 376

ISBN-13:

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Plants, as is now becoming widely recognised, exploit animals in almost as many ways as animals use plants; only rarely, however, do they eat animals in the sense of catching, holding, and devouring prey. The manner, however, in which they function as carnivores grants insights into plant form, function, and evolution not otherwise readily available. The diversity of morphological, biochemical, and commensal features generates both the lay and the scientific interest in this diverse group. The carnivorous plants exhibit features which are common to many other non-carnivorous plants. However the extent to which these features have developed and the combination of different features in small organs is unique and therefore, can be exploited by using these plants as models for scientific research.

Meat-eating Plants

Meat-eating Plants PDF

Author: Ellen Lawrence

Publisher: Bearport Publishing

Published: 2012-08-01

Total Pages: 24

ISBN-13: 1617726257

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An unsuspecting fly buzzes around a clump of colorful plants in a swamp. Unaware of any danger, it lands on one of the plants. Snap! The plant’s trap snaps shut in less than a second, and the fly is now the meal of a Venus flytrap! This title explores the world of carnivorous plants that obtain nutrients by “eating” animals. From plants that act like sticky flypaper to trap their prey, to other plants that lure their victims into deep pitchers of liquid from which the animals will never escape, children will learn about a variety of plants that employ interesting techniques to capture food. From beautiful photographs of these unusual plants to high-interest, high-gross-factor facts, Meat-Eating Plants: Toothless Wonders makes learning about carnivorous plants a lively, engaging experience. The fun topic ensures that young readers will enjoy engaging in science while developing their powers of observation and critical thinking.

The Carnivorous Plants Manual for Young Explorers

The Carnivorous Plants Manual for Young Explorers PDF

Author: Elena Fin

Publisher:

Published: 2019-06-06

Total Pages: 48

ISBN-13: 9788854413856

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Carnivorous plants are, without the shadow of a doubt, the member of the plant world that children find most intriguing! In a style that is simple and interesting as well as fun, this book brings together all of their characteristics along with many suggestions for growing them. Charles Darwin was the first to study these plants and recognize their extremely peculiar nature. He and his comically awkward assistant will guide the reader, knowledgably mixing scientific and historical data with an endless array of curious facts about the most bizarre plant ever created by Mother Nature.

Carnivorous Plants

Carnivorous Plants PDF

Author: Dan Torre

Publisher: Reaktion Books

Published: 2019-06-10

Total Pages: 240

ISBN-13: 1789141133

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Carnivorous plants are a unique botanical group, possessing modified leaves to trap, kill, and consume small creatures. As a result they are often depicted as killers in films and literature—from Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors to the world-dominating plants of The Day of the Triffids—yet many people regard carnivorous plants as exotic and beautiful specimens to collect and display. In this abundantly illustrated and highly entertaining book, Dan Torre describes the evolution, structure, and scientific background of carnivorous plants. Examining their cultural and social history, he also shows how they have inspired our imagination and been represented in art, literature, cinema, animation, and popular culture. From the Venus flytrap—a species endemic to the Carolinas—to pitcher plants, this fascinating history of these singular, arresting, beautiful, yet deadly plants is certain to be devoured.

The Savage Garden, Revised

The Savage Garden, Revised PDF

Author: Peter D'Amato

Publisher: Ten Speed Press

Published: 2013-07-02

Total Pages: 386

ISBN-13: 1607744112

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For fifteen years, The Savage Garden has been the number one bestselling bible for those interested in growing carnivorous plants. This new edition is fully revised to include the latest developments and discoveries in the carnivorous plant world, making it the most accurate and up to date book of its kind. You may be familiar with the Venus flytrap, but did you know that some pitcher plants can—and do—digest an entire rat? Or that there are several hundred species of carnivorous plants on our planet? Beautiful, unusual, and surprisingly easy to grow, flesh-eating plants thrive everywhere from windowsills to outdoor container gardens, in a wide variety of climates. The Savage Garden is the most comprehensive guide to these fascinating oddities, gloriously illustrated with more than 200 color photos. Fully revised with the latest developments in the carnivorous plant world, this new edition includes: • All the basics—from watering and feeding to modern advances in artificial lighting, soil, and fertilizers. • Detailed descriptions of hundreds of plants, including many of the incredible new species that have been recently discovered and hybridized. • Cultivation and propagation information for all the plant families: pitcher plants, Venus flytraps, sundews, rainbow plants, bladderworts, and many other peculiar plants from the demented mind of Mother Nature. Whether you’re a beginner with your first flytrap or an expert looking for the latest exotic specimen, this classic book has everything you need to grow your very own little garden of horrors.

Air Plants

Air Plants PDF

Author: Zenaida Sengo

Publisher: Timber Press

Published: 2014-10-01

Total Pages: 225

ISBN-13: 1604696516

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“In this beautiful book, artist Zenaida Sengo has provided inspiration for designing and living with tillandsias.” —Flora Grubb Air Plants shows how simple and rewarding it is to grow, craft, and design with these modern, easy-to grow houseplants. Stunning photographs showcase creative ideas for using tillandsias mounted on walls and suspended from the ceiling. You’ll learn how to use the plants in living hair accessories and jewelry and in unique containers, like dishware, leather bowls, and baskets. Six step-by-step projects include a wood mount, a wall hook, lasso-and-hook wiring, a ceramic-frame garden, and three unique terrariums.

In Defense of Plants

In Defense of Plants PDF

Author: Matt Candeias

Publisher: Mango Media Inc.

Published: 2021-03-16

Total Pages: 297

ISBN-13: 1642504548

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The Study of Plants in a Whole New Light “Matt Candeias succeeds in evoking the wonder of plants with wit and wisdom.” ―James T. Costa, PhD, executive director, Highlands Biological Station and author of Darwin's Backyard #1 New Release in Nature & Ecology, Plants, Botany, Horticulture, Trees, Biological Sciences, and Nature Writing & Essays In his debut book, internationally-recognized blogger and podcaster Matt Candeias celebrates the nature of plants and the extraordinary world of plant organisms. A botanist’s defense. Since his early days of plant restoration, this amateur plant scientist has been enchanted with flora and the greater environmental ecology of the planet. Now, he looks at the study of plants through the lens of his ever-growing houseplant collection. Using gardening, houseplants, and examples of plants around you, In Defense of Plants changes your relationship with the world from the comfort of your windowsill. The ruthless, horny, and wonderful nature of plants. Understand how plants evolve and live on Earth with a never-before-seen look into their daily drama. Inside, Candeias explores the incredible ways plants live, fight, have sex, and conquer new territory. Whether a blossoming botanist or a professional plant scientist, In Defense of Plants is for anyone who sees plants as more than just static backdrops to more charismatic life forms. In this easily accessible introduction to the incredible world of plants, you’ll find: • Fantastic botanical histories and plant symbolism • Passionate stories of flora diversity and scientific names of plant organisms • Personal tales of plantsman discovery through the study of plants If you enjoyed books like The Botany of Desire, What a Plant Knows, or The Soul of an Octopus, then you’ll love In Defense of Plants.

Growing Carnivorous Plants

Growing Carnivorous Plants PDF

Author: Barry A. Rice

Publisher: Timber Press (OR)

Published: 2006

Total Pages: 230

ISBN-13:

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Over 200 species, hybrids, and cultivars from all genera of carnivorous plants are described in this comprehensive volume. Detailed cultivation advice is provided to enable readers to select and place the right plants, while information on how to feed carnivorous plants will enable even the most squeamish grower to ensure that plants receive the nutrients they require.