Thermodynamics of the bladderwort feeding strike - Suction power from elastic energy storage

Otto Berg, Krizma Singh, Maxwell R. Hall, M. Janneke Schwaner, Ulrike K. Müller

Research output: Chapter in Book / Report / Conference proceedingConference contributionAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

The carnivorous plant bladderwort exemplifies the use of accumulated elastic energy to power motion: Respiration-driven pumps slowly load the walls of its suction traps with elastic energy (∼1 h). During a feeding strike, this energy is released suddenly to accelerate water (∼1 ms). However, due to the traps' small size and concomitant low Reynolds number, a significant fraction of the stored energy may be dissipated as viscous friction. Such losses and the mechanical reversibility of Stokes flow are thought to degrade the feeding success of other suction feeders in this size range, such as larval fish. In contrast, triggered bladderwort traps are generally successful. By mapping the energy budget of a bladderwort feeding strike, we illustrate how this smallest of suction feeders can perform like an adult fish.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationIntegrative and Comparative Biology
PublisherOxford University press
Pages1597-1608
Volume59
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Dec 2019
Externally publishedYes

Publication series

NameIntegrative and Comparative Biology
ISSN (Print)1540-7063
ISSN (Electronic)1557-7023

Funding

This research was supported by the National Science Foundation [NSF-BIO-IOS #1352130 to U.K.M.] and California State University Fresno.

FundersFunder number
NSF-BIO-IOS
National Science Foundation
Directorate for Biological Sciences1352130
California State University

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