Q: I need some fast answers on Venus flytraps for my science report...

A: Here is where your long-suffering and ever-helpful FAQ-sifu gets to gripe.

• Out on a limb?

I have answered nearly every conceivable carnivorous plant question here already, so if you look around you will probably find your answer.

While I do reply to inquiries from the media, or those interested in buying my photography, I don't have time to advise you on how to grow some particular plant. Sorry! I suggest you try posting your question on ICPS forum. If I don't answer it there, someone else will!

On the other hand, if you have a question that is truly on on the FAQ, I'd be interested in hearing about it. Questions that I am asked more than a few times eventually become part of the FAQ, so tell me what topics I have missed! Below are some pet e-mail peeves that I suggest you take to heart when e-mailing me, or anyone else for that matter.

1)I need to know about Venus flytraps. Send me information.

Well, I have written this huge FAQ, a couple of books, all filled with information. What do you want that I could send you?

2)How do I grow Venus flytraps?

It is all there in the FAQ

3)I have a science report due in three days. Here are 6 questions. Answer them for me.

That is your job. I already got my Ph.D. Read the FAQ and you don't even have to go to the library!

4)TELL ME STUF RIGHT AWAY---cyberhog

When you mail someone, especially someone you do not know, never request things in a demanding tone. It is very rude. It is particularly rude to ask for things and not even identify yourself by something other than an absurd nickname such as "cyberhog", "mailmonstr", or "netdude", etc. You know who I am and what I look like. At least identify yourself by name. And please, e-mail is a form of communication. Try to spell. People of every language use the net: clear, polite e-mail will always get you better results.

Page citations: Personal annoyance.