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News Release 13-073
Earth Day: Big Ecosystem Changes Viewed Through the Lens of Tiny Carnivorous Plants
Researchers use pitcher plants to identify signs of trouble dead ahead
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In scientists' eyes, each leaf of the northern pitcher plant is a small ecosystem.
Credit: Aaron Ellison
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The northern pitcher plant is known to biologists as Sarracenia purpurea for its purple color.
Credit: Aaron Ellison
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Water-filled pools in pitcher plants have ecological dynamics similar to ponds and lakes.
Credit: Aaron Ellison
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Oxygen sensors inside a northern pitcher plant reveal when a tipping point is reached.
Credit: John Hirsch
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As part of experiments, ecologist Jennie Sirota feeds a wasp to a pitcher plant.
Credit: Ben Baiser
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Jennie Sirota conducts research deep within the confines of a dark bog.
Credit: Ben Baiser
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