Carnivorous plant discovery validates theory proposed by Darwin 150 years ago

In addition, the research team mapped out a complete high-precision genome (the full genetic blueprint) of the species. By comparing it with other insect-eating species like pitcher plants and sundews, they discovered that these unrelated species independently developed similar genes to secrete sticky fluid and digest prey — a process known as convergent evolution.

Zhang Xinjian, first author of the study and a postdoctoral researcher at the Kunming Institute of Botany, noted that the findings challenge long-held botanical assumptions.