Story perspectives

Saxifraga candelabrum proven carnivorous, traps 70 insects

8/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

Han Sun of the Kunming Institute of Botany confirmed that Saxifraga candelabrum is carnivorous and published the findings in Nature Communications on 4 August 2026.
The plant’s red glandular hairs trap an average of more than 70 small insects, mainly non-biting midges, while largely avoiding larger pollinating flies.
Analyses revealed that the hairs produce phosphatase and that the plant absorbs insect-derived nitrogen into its tissues, especially its flowers.
Odor-blocking glass enclosures reduced insect capture, indicating that floral scent compounds help lure prey.
Research showed gene expansions related to prey attraction, digestion and nutrient uptake, and indicated that the plant needs about two weeks to digest trapped insects.

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Story summary

Han Sun of the Kunming Institute of Botany confirmed that Saxifraga candelabrum is carnivorous and published the findings in Nature Communications on 4 August 2026.
The plant’s red glandular hairs trap an average of more than 70 small insects, mainly non-biting midges, while largely avoiding larger pollinating flies.
Analyses revealed that the hairs produce phosphatase and that the plant absorbs insect-derived nitrogen into its tissues, especially its flowers.
Odor-blocking glass enclosures reduced insect capture, indicating that floral scent compounds help lure prey.
Research showed gene expansions related to prey attraction, digestion and nutrient uptake, and indicated that the plant needs about two weeks to digest trapped insects.