Uptake of lead by Nepenthes via their pitchers
Abstract
To assess whether Nepenthes can take up contaminant metals via their pitchers, and if this is more efficient than root uptake, we conducted an experiment in which we added lead (Pb)-contaminated maggots or Pb solution to pitchers, or Pb solution to the soil. We found that adding Pb to the pitchers increased pitcher Pb concentrations but there was no indication that Pb added to the soil was taken up by the plants, nor was Pb transferred from the pitchers to the leaves or roots. This study indicates that Nepenthes can, indeed, take up non-essential pollutant metals via their pitchers.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Plant and Biological Electrophysiology Studies
Heavy metals in environment
Environmental Toxicology and Ecotoxicology
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Carnivorous Plant Newsletter
- Volume
- 55
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 11–14
- Publication date
- 12 February 2026
- Language
- EN