Based on our observations and tests, we predict that this plant uses UV patterns to lure insects into its trap. We predicted that the bulb near the opening of the trap may have some type of nectar to attract prey, but we were unable to test this. The hairs inside the trap grow downward making it difficult for the insect to crawl out. The liquid in the bottom of the trap is highly basic, and dissolves the prey. Since the traps are pretty small, it makes sense that the prey would also have to be small. UV patterns to attract and trick insects small hairs pointing down to guide the insect into the trap and make it hard for them to climb back up
The pH of our plant was an average of 10. A pH of 10 means that the plant tested more basic than acidic. We got our pH through testing the liquid that was inside of the main leaf of the plant. Most plants have a pH of 5.5, so a pH of 10 is more basic than usual. The pH of a plant varies by the type of plant and the environment it lives in. Roots will take in either more acid or more basic substances depending on the food available, the temperature of roots, or intensity of light. Photo by Emma Cain