Nepenthes pudica
About
This species is notable for being the first described pitcher plant to utilize subterranean pitfall traps, producing functional underground pitchers on achlorophyllous stems. It is found in the Mentarang Hulu district of North Kalimantan, Borneo.
Field notes
Morphology
The climbing shoots are glabrous with stems 4–6 mm in diameter and internodes up to 4 cm long. Underground basal shoots bear reduced, partially or completely achlorophyllous leaves with well-developed lower pitchers. These underground shoots have not been observed to branch or develop roots.
Distribution & habitat
Mentarang Hulu district of North Kalimantan, Borneo, at altitudes between 1100–1300 m.
Ecology
It appears to predominantly capture ants, and is notable for using pitfall traps specifically in the subterranean environment.
History & etymology
The specific epithet pudica is Latin for "shy" or "modest," referring to the species' tendency to conceal its pitchers.
Habitat
- Altitude
- 1,100–1,300 m
- Altitude class
- intermediate
- Native to
- Borneo, Kalimantan
Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate