Impact of the Karner Blue Butterfly

Karner Blue butterflies, or lycaeides melissa (Melissa Blues), are found in the northern and western regions of the United States and Canada. They are found as far south as Mexico and as far east as New York. They are an endangered species, and their population continues to decrease as does the diversity of the land they occupy.

  1. Appearance

    • The upper surface area of the Karner Blues' wings are dark blue, and the back area of the wings are whitish gray with black or silver spots. Orange and black margins outline the wing areas.

    Nutrition

    • The Karner Blue butterflies rely almost entirely upon wild lupine as larvae, making these trees a necessary element in their life cycle. As adults, the Karner Blues partake of the nectar of more than 50 flower species, thereby contributing to the pollination process.

    Interesting Fact

    • Karner Blues enjoy an interdependent relationship with ants. Their larvae are tended by ants, leading to a higher survival rate into maturation. Ants draw from the adult population of Karner Blues for their own food supply.

    Impact on Environment

    • Karner Blues not only provide beautiful additions to their natural habitats, but also they contribute to the pollination process integral to the proliferation and survival of plant life. They also provide food for other insects, like ants, flies and spiders.

    Ecotourism Benefits

    • Because of their endangered status, the Karner Blue butterflies draw visitors to their natural environments hoping to catch sight of the dwindling population before it suffers greater losses.