A mathematical model on the closing and opening mechanism for venus flytrap

Abstract

This paper investigates the opening and closing mechanism for the Venus Flytrap (Dionaea muscipula). A mathematical model has been proposed to explain how the flytrap transitions between open, semi-closed and closed states. The model accounts for the charge accumulation of action potentials, which generated by mechanical stimulation of the sensitive trigger hairs on the lobes of the flytrap. Though many studies have been reported for the Venus flytrap opening and closing mechanism, this paper attempts to explain the mechanism from nonlinear dynamics and control perspective. © 2010 Landes Bioscience.