Carnivorous plants eat faster with a fungal friend

Sundew plants and an acid-loving fungus make digestive enzymes that break down insects

A dead ant lies on its back on the tip of a carnivorous sundew plant's q-tip shaped leaf

Sundew plants with Acrodontium crateriforme fungus living on them can digest their trapped insect prey much faster than those with sterile leaves, thanks to an acidic and enzymatic boost.

Pei-Feng Sun

Insects have plenty to beware when it comes to carnivorous plants. Add an acid-loving fungus to that list of dangers.

Sundew plants have tentacle-like