Prey size restriction?

Prey size restriction?#350271

By ChefDean -  Wed Mar 18, 2020 3:51 pm
Location:  Clarksville, TN
Posts:  9363
Joined:  Tue Sep 18, 2018 12:44 am

- Wed Mar 18, 2020 3:51 pm #350271

I'm not very experienced with Nepenthes, but the Ventricosa I have is doing well. However, I'm curious if there is a suggested ratio for bug to pitcher?
As with VFT's (and I've heard for sundews too), it is suggested that the prey item be no bigger that 1/3 the size if the trap to reduce the possibility of mold. Is there a suggested limit for Neps? Or if it fits, it sits? I have new pitchers forming, and there's a bumper crop of caterpillars due to the mild winter here. I'll feed each pitcher if I can.
Thanks,
Chef

Everything happens for a reason. Sometimes the reason is that I make bad decisions.

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Re: Prey size restriction?#350273

By sanguinearocks101 -  Wed Mar 18, 2020 4:10 pm
Location:  Zone 6b
Posts:  1665
Joined:  Mon Jan 06, 2020 1:56 am

- Wed Mar 18, 2020 4:10 pm #350273

You can feed it bugs as big as the pitcher. Bug body parts above the water level will not be able to be digested and may become moldy. You could always chop the bugs up into tiny bits so more can fit into the pitcher ... but then you will not have the satisfaction of knowing that the pesky insect had a slow death by drowning

. I am not sure if you can do this but you may be able to just fill the pitcher up until it is above the insect.

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Re: Prey size restriction?#350280

By ChefDean -  Wed Mar 18, 2020 9:49 pm
Location:  Clarksville, TN
Posts:  9363
Joined:  Tue Sep 18, 2018 12:44 am

- Wed Mar 18, 2020 9:49 pm #350280

sanguinearocks101 wrote: ↑Wed Mar 18, 2020 4:10 pmYou could always chop the bugs up into tiny bits so more can fit into the pitcher ...

Should I cook for them as well? Maybe find a complimentary sauce? Or wine pairing?
Only kidding, thank you for your advice.
With it being close to me being able to put it outside, and the wasps getting ready to wake up, I'm glad it will be able to take on the wasps, AKA A-holes with wings, without me having to watch it to temper its appetite.
Thanks friend,
Chef

Everything happens for a reason. Sometimes the reason is that I make bad decisions.

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