The Role of Red Leaf Coloration in Prey Capture for Pinguicula planifolia

Anthocyanins in the leaves of carnivorous plants are suggested to play a role in

prey capture. In this study, we investigated the role of red leaf coloration (an indicator of anthocyanins)

on prey capture using Pinguicula planifolia  (Chapman’s Butterwort). Overall,

red leaves had less prey (i.e., Collembola) than green leaves, suggesting that red coloration

does not enhance prey capture for Chapman’s Butterwort. However, the frequent presence

of Collembola on leaves suggests that this plant species could be relying on other cues to

attract prey (e.g., olfactory cues).