Abstract
Understanding the physics of plant movements, which describe the interplay between plant architecture, movement speed and actuation principles, is essential for the comprehension of important processes like plant morphogenesis. Recent investigations especially on rapid plant movements at the interface of biology, physics and engineering sciences highlight how such fast motions can be achieved without the presence of muscles, nerves and technical hinge analogies. The suction traps (bladders) of carnivorous bladderworts (Utricularia spp., Lentibulariaceae, Lamiales) are considered as some of the most elaborate moving structures in the plant kingdom. A complex interplay of morphological and physiological adaptations allows the traps to pump water out of their body and to store elastic energy in the deformed bladder walls. Mechanical stimulation by prey entails opening of the otherwise watertight trapdoor, followed by trap wall relaxation, sucking in of water and prey, and consecutive trapdoor closure. Suction can also occur spontaneously in non-stimulated traps. We review the current state of knowledge about the suction trap mechanism with a focus on architectonically homogeneous traps of aquatic bladderwort species from section Utricularia (the so-called 'Utricularia vulgaris trap type'). The functional morphology and biomechanics of the traps are described in detail. We discuss open questions and propose promising aspects for future studies on these sophisticated ultra-fast trapping devices.
Highlights
Carnivorous plants attract, catch, retain and kill prey animals and absorb the nutrients resulting from digestion (Darwin 1875; Lloyd 1942)
Understanding the physics of plant movements, which describe the interplay between plant architecture, movement speed and actuation principles, is essential for the comprehension of important processes like plant morphogenesis
Recent investigations especially on rapid plant movements at the interface of biology, physics and engineering sciences highlight how such fast motions can be achieved without the presence of muscles, nerves and technical hinge analogies
Summary
Carnivorous plants attract, catch, retain and kill prey animals and absorb the nutrients resulting from digestion (Darwin 1875; Lloyd 1942). The lateral and ventral inner surface of the trap entrance, near to the pavement epithelium, is covered with long-stalked pyriform glands resembling those on the upper part of the middle region on the door (Figs 5B and D, 6B–D and F, and 7C, E and I) The lengths of their basal cells decrease in direction to the trapdoor. Thick and stiff traps have recently been found in some Australian Utricularia species from the Pleiochasia section (Płachno et al 2015)
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