Question

the pitcher plant is green indicating that it is autotrophic. Why does it then dependent on insects for nutrition and is classified as a heterotroph?

Answer 1

A pitcher plant produces it food through photosynthesis which is mostly sugar.

Explanation:

• They process this sugar into starch but that's not enough for this plant.
• However, a pitcher plant has also needs for minerals and nitrogen as it grows in low nitrogen areas.
• That's why they consume insects that are rich in nitrogen and minerals to fulfill their needs.
• Without minerals and nitrogen, they cannot grow properly.

Answer 2

Answer : -They process this sugar into starch but that's not enough for this plant.

- However, a pitcher plant has also needs for minerals and nitrogen as it grows in low nitrogen areas.

 -That's why they consume insects that are rich in nitrogen and minerals to                fulfill their needs.

- Without minerals and nitrogen, they cannot grow properly.