Bladderwort is the genus of carnivorous plants belonging to the family Lentibulariaceae. The genus of Bladderwort contains 220 widely distributed species of plants which are featured by small hollow sacs which actively capture and digest tiny animals such as aquatic worms, insect larvae and water fleas. Bladderworts are found in streams, lakes and waterlogged soils. It occurs in fresh water and wet soil as aquatic or terrestrial species. The plants lack roots and have horizontal floating stem which bears simple or divided leaves. The plant is 8 inches tall. The stem produces small carnivorous bladders and ranges from dark to transparent in color. Flowers emerges above the surface and are yellowish, bilaterally symmetrical, bisexual with five fused petals, two sepals, superior ovary and two stamens. It is carnivorous which captures small organisms with the use of bladder like traps. Traps ranges from 0.2 mm to 1.2 cm. U.vulgaris is an aquatic species which possess bladders that are larger and feed on nematodes, water fleas, mosquito larvae, fish fry and young tadpoles. The traps are sophisticated despite their small size. Bladderworts are highly specialized plants in which the vegetative organs are not separated clearly into stems, leaves and roots.
Traditional uses
- Internally it is used for treating urinary tract disorders and externally for burns.
- It is used for kidney stones and urinary tract infections.
- Bladderwort is used for treating fluid retention, spasms and swelling, promote weight loss and stimulate gallbladder secretions.
- Apply Bladder to the skin directly for burns and inflammation.
- Use it as a poultice for wounds.
How to Eat
Dried leaves are used to make medicinal tea.
Other Facts
- Self-pollination is a part of reproductive cycle of some species of Bladderwort.
- Fruit is spherical shaped capsule which consists of numerous small seeds.
- It is propagated by division of stem and seeds.
- It is not a source of food for other animals but provides shelter for aquatic creatures.
- Bladderworts are cultivated for its ornamental flowers
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