A Rat Eating Plant Named Sir David Attenborough
Posted By Ben Goulding, 17 August, 2009 | permalink
A rat and insect eating carnivorous pitcher plant, that was been discovered in the Philippines, has been named after the great wildlife broadcaster, Sir David Attenborough.
Botanist Stewart McPherson said: “The plant produces spectacular traps which catch not only insects, but also rodents. It is remarkable that it remained undiscovered until the 21st century.
“My team and I named it in honour of Sir David whose work has inspired generations toward a better understanding of the beauty and diversity of the natural world,” added Mr McPherson.
Sir David, 83, said: “I was contacted by the team shortly after the discovery and they asked if they could name it after me. I was delighted and told them, ‘Thank you very much’.
“I’m absolutely flattered. This is a remarkable species the largest of its kind. I’m told it can catch rats then eat them with its digestive enzymes. It’s certainly capable of that.”
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