Utricularia gibba

Utricularia gibba, also known as the humped bladderwort, is a small, rootless carnivorous plant belonging to the genus Utricularia. It is found in fresh water and wet soil as a submerged aquatic plant across several continents.

Description

Utricularia gibba is a free-floating plant that has small, bright yellow flowers. The plant is characterized by its numerous, tiny bladder-like traps, which it uses to capture and digest microscopic aquatic creatures. The traps are triggered by the movement of potential prey, causing the trapdoor to open and suck in the creature along with water. The trapdoor then closes, and the creature is digested by enzymes produced by the plant.

Distribution and habitat

Utricularia gibba has a wide distribution, being found in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. It is typically found in calm, shallow waters, such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. The plant prefers acidic conditions and is often found in peat bogs.

Genome

The genome of Utricularia gibba has been sequenced, revealing that it has one of the smallest known plant genomes. Despite its small size, the genome is highly complex, with a large number of genes relative to its size.

Cultivation

Utricularia gibba is sometimes cultivated by hobbyists for its interesting carnivorous habits and its attractive, delicate flowers. It can be grown in a water-filled container with a layer of peat at the bottom.

See also

• Carnivorous plants
• Utricularia