Natural Abundance of {delta}15N Confirms Insectivorous Habit ofRoridula gorgonias, Despite it Having No Proteolytic Enzymes |
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Authors: | MIDGLEY J J; STOCK W D |
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Institution: | Botany Dept, University of Cape Town, P. Bag, Rondebosch, South Africa |
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Abstract: | Natural abundance values of plant 15N give an indication asto the source of nitrogen. In particular, carnivorous plantsare expected to be relatively enriched due to trophic enrichmentof their prey. Values of 15N for adultRoridula gorgonias(mean+3.02)are 49 greater than co-occurring non-carnivorous plantspecies and 5.24 greater than juvenileR. gorgoniasplants. Theyare also 3.54.26 greater than co-occurringDroseraspecieswhich, being sundews, are considered to be carnivorous. Thesehigh levels of 15N in adult plants are best explained as beingdue to access to trophically enriched N from insects. As isthe case for other carnivorous plants, leaves and stems ofR.gorgoniasare highly ultraviolet reflective and are thereforeprobably attractive to potential insect prey. This is furthersupport for this plant species being insectivorous.Copyright1998 Annals of Botany Company Nitrogen isotopes, carnivorous plants, insectivorous plant, ultraviolet,Roridula gorgoniasL. |
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