Question

Nepenthes (Insectivorous pitcher plant) is

• A. Producer
• B. Consumer
• C. Both A and B
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is C Both A and B

Like all green plants, pitcher plants use their leaves to harness energy from the sun and make their own food; they use carbon dioxide (CO${}_2$) to make energy-rich carbohydrates. So, they are producers.

However, it tends to grow on very wet soils that are very poor in nitrogen, an important element in the processes of life. Their leaves serve as traps that capture insects, secrete digestive enzymes that break down their prey, and absorb this juice into their tissues. These carnivorous traps are adaptations that allow these plants to survive and prosper in their harsh, nitrogen-poor environment.

Hence, it is both a producer and a carnivore.