Drosera pygmaea facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Drosera pygmaea |
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| Early summer growth of Drosera pygmaea at the Peter Murrell Reserve, near Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. | |
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Drosera
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pygmaea
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Drosera pygmaea is a very special plant. It is a carnivorous plant, which means it eats insects! This tiny plant forms a rosette, like a small flower shape. It can live for one or two years. It is found naturally in Australia and New Zealand.
The name pygmaea comes from Latin. It means "dwarf." This name fits perfectly because the plant is very small. It usually grows to be only 8 to 18 millimeters wide. That's less than an inch! Small, light-colored flowers grow on stems. These stems are about 1 to 3 inches long. Drosera pygmaea is one of the most famous "pygmy sundews."
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What is a Pygmy Sundew?
Drosera pygmaea is part of a group called sundews. Sundews are known for their sticky leaves. These leaves have tiny hairs that look like dewdrops. But it's not dew! It's a sticky liquid. This liquid helps them catch small insects.
Why Does it Eat Insects?
Most plants get their food from the soil. But sundews often grow in poor soil. This soil does not have many nutrients. So, sundews get extra nutrients from insects. They digest the insects to get what they need.
Where Does This Tiny Plant Live?
This small carnivorous plant is found in two countries. It grows naturally in parts of Australia. You can also find it in New Zealand. It likes damp, open areas. These places often have sandy or peaty soil.
How Small is "Pygmy"?
The word "pygmy" means very small. Drosera pygmaea is a great example. It is one of the smallest sundews. Its tiny size helps it survive. It can grow in small spaces. It also doesn't need much water.
