Bog Habitat A bog is a type of wetland ecosystem characterized by wet, spongy peat deposits composed of a thick carpet of Sphagnum moss. Because of their waterlogged conditions, the amount of dissolved oxygen, which is essential for plant growth, is severely limited. They also are highly acidic and are low in nutrients. These nutrients come from either rainwater or, in some cases, groundwater. Many of Massachusetts' rarest orchids are found exclusively in bogs.
Bogs also are the haunt of carnivorous plants, like pitcher plants, sundews and horned bladderwort.
The pitcher plant has a six-inch leaf that is like a colorful tube. Inside, the leaf is partly filled with water from rain. This water also contains digestive enzymes that the plant has secreted. The combination of water and colorful patterning on the leaves lures insects into the leaf. Once inside, the leaf's waxy surface and down-pointing hairs prevent the insect's escape.