A captivating exhibition featuring nearly 120 varieties of insectivorous plants has recently opened its doors at Chenshan Botanical Garden, nestled in Songjiang District.
The exhibition, which blends artistry with scientific inquiry, not only showcases the aesthetic beauty of these plants but also underscores their unique biological adaptations. Among the highlights are several rare and endangered species meticulously introduced and cultivated by the garden.
First brought to scientific attention by Darwin in 1875, insectivorous plants possess the remarkable ability to supplement their nutrient intake by trapping and digesting insects and arthropods. These plants are typically found in acidic, swampy, and peat-rich environments where nitrogen is scarce, prompting them to evolve diverse mechanisms for attracting, capturing, and processing prey through natural selection.
With approximately 630 recognized species spanning across 10 plant families, insectivorous plants employ a variety of strategies to ensnare insects. One prominent method showcased at the exhibition is the pitfall trapping mechanism, where plants feature specialized leaves resembling bottle-shaped traps. These traps lure insects with nectar secretions on their lids and contain rainwater mixed with digestive fluids that submerge and decompose small prey.
Alongside these botanical wonders, the exhibition integrates artistic elements such as paper art installations, paintings, and preserved floral arrangements to enrich the visitor experience.
Details:
- Exhibition Hours: 8am – 5:30pm, until July 28
- Location: Chenshan Botanical Garden, 3888 Chenhua Highway, Songjiang District
