Nodding Marsh Pitcher (Heliamphora nutans)

Nodding marsh pitcher (Heliamphora nutans) is endemic to Roraima and it’s leaves are formed as cannisters and hold rainwater.

When insects fall into the water they are unable to climb back up as the inside is covered with hair pointing downwards. This ensures the insect is kept inside so that the plant’s enzymes can dissolve the nutrients and absorb it. This is how it obtains nitrogen and phosphorus in particular.

It’s only found here on Roraima and surrounding tepuis (table mountains).

Last updated on 8 November 2024