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Carnivorous Bromeliads
While there are hundreds of genera and species of bromeliads, only two are carnivorous, Catopsis berteronianaand Brocchinia reducta. While other bromeliads may end up with the occasional drowned insect within their water wells, it is only these two species that actually have absorptive glands to derive nutrients from these drowned insects.
As with most bromeliads, these two species have erect leaves which form a tight rosette with a well in the middle. Within this well gathers rain water, organic debris, and insects. The leaves are coated with a waxy, crumby coating which gives way when an insect lands upon it.
Both species are epiphytes, as are all bromeliads, with Brocchinia reductaliving side by side with the Heliamphoraon the highland tepuis. Catopsis beteronianalives as an epiphyte in trees in Florida.
Species
There are only the two species mentioned above.
Soil and Containers
As with most bromeliads, these two do not require large containers and are happy with regular potting soil. This is due to the fact the the root system is not very extensive, and is not the primary method for obtaining nutrients for the plants need. The soil can be kept slightly damp with overhead watering. The water wells should be kept filled at all times. Both appreciate high levels of humidity.
Climate
Both are from warmish areas, and require no dormancy. A change in photoperiod will encourage flowering. They do well in terrarium settings, putting out lush foliage.
Propagation
Plants form clumps over time, and can be divided when the daughter plant is large enough. Unfortunately, this can be woefully slow, so hopefully tissue cultured plants will become more common.
Seasonal Care
Change the soil every two or three years. Remove dead growth to prevent any chance of fungus. Fill up the water wells on a regular basis.
Pests and Diseases
The thick leaves make the bromeliads very resistant to any pests. Fungus can occur under humid conditions. Remove dead material to prevent this from occuring.