How do digestive enzymes in pitcher fluid work

Pitcher plants digest their prey by releasing special fluids that break the animal down into tiny, absorbable nutrients. The pitcher has glands that secrete a liquid full of enzymes such as proteases, chitinase, and lipases. When insects or other creatures fall inside, these enzymes go to work, dissolving proteins, insect shells, and other organic parts into simpler forms the plant can use.

How the process works

1. Secretion of fluid- The pitcher’s inner glands release a digestive fluid into the trap. This mix contains sticky mucilage, acids, and a blend of enzymes.

2. Enzymes and their roles- Different enzymes target different parts of the prey:

• Proteases: Break proteins into amino acids.
• Chitinase: Breaks down chitin, the hard shell material in insects.
• Nucleases: Break down DNA and RNA.
• Lipases: Break down fats.
• Other enzymes (esterases, phosphatases): Handle extra organic compounds.

3. Digestion and absorption- The prey turns into a nutrient-rich “soup.” The pitcher’s glands then absorb the simple molecules, including nitrogen and other key nutrients, which keep the plant healthy.

4. Regulation- The plant can fine-tune enzyme activity based on prey. For instance, more proteases can be produced when triggered by plant hormones like jasmonic acid.