Utricularia vulgaris

Utricularia vulgaris, commonly known as common bladderwort, is a aquatic carnivorous plant found in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving waters. It has floating, finely divided leaves and small blind sacs called bladder traps that capture tiny aquatic creatures like water fleas and insect larvae. When these creatures touch the traps, a quick vacuum mechanism sucks them inside, providing nutrients the plant needs in nutrient-poor environments. Despite its carnivorous nature, it also performs photosynthesis like other plants. Utricularia vulgaris plays an important role in aquatic ecosystems by helping control small invertebrate populations and contributing to biodiversity.