The Curious World of Carnivorous Plants: A Comprehensive Guide to Their Biology and Cultivation

by Wilhelm Barthlott, Stefan Porembski, Rudiger Seine

Plants that trap and eat 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 succumb to ingenious traps and face their doom. But unlike plants that temporarily catch insects for pollination, the true carnivores go considerably they digest them for the nutrients they need to survive in extremely inhospitable sites on land and in water. 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 bilbliography. It is an essential reference for hobbyist, naturalist, and collector alike.

Genres: Nonfiction, Biology, Science, Gardening

224 pages, Hardcover

First published October 26, 2007

Reviews

[Lorraine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Seemingly thorough book on carnivorous plants, nicely divided into general topics and then by family. However, it's a little too detailed in its discussion at time because if you're trying to get an overview, you'll get bogged down by all the differences between species that seem to have undefinable boundaries. Lots of sources to reference all the differences, too. And repetitive; translation could use some finessing. Not for pleasure or perusal reading. Great pictures, though.