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Icaricia icarioides missionensis

Icaricia icarioides missionensis

Icaricia icarioides missionensis

A species of Icaricia

The endangered Mission blue has a wingspan around 21–33 millimetres (0.83–1.3 in). Larvae are extremely small and rarely seen. The males' top wing grades from ice blue in the center to deep sky blue (misregistered as turquoise/cyan to violet by most photographic equipment, the wing color carries no hint of green or purple, strictly capturing an enthralling spectrum of purest, clearest, richest, brightest blue) exhibiting a dazzling iridescent fluctuation in range under direct, full sunlight. Black margins on the upper wing sport "long, white, hair-like scales". A constellation of jet-black dots (misregistered as dull gray by most photographic equipment) frames the extremities of the ventral surface, its pattern adroitly complimenting the wing shape thrown into spectacular relief against the shimmering silvery pearlescent background, with a fascinatingly muted hint of dark ice blue bleeding faintly up from the body and permeating the veins throughout for the palest, most delicate of emphases. Body shape, eyes, antennae, and appendages possess it of a uniquely exquisite poise. The males' bodies are dark-blue/brown. Females' upper wings are dark brown, but otherwise mirror males'. The larvae only feed on the leaves of the three host lupine plants (Lupinus albifrons, Lupinus formosus, and Lupinus variicolor) native to their habitat. The plants are necessary for survival for the Mission blue. Thus, the butterfly's fate is closely tied to that of the three species of lupines as the plants provide food and shelter for the butterfly in its larval stage. The adult Mission blue drinks the nectar of a variety of flowers, many in the sunflower family, using its long proboscis which extends from the underside of its head.

General Info About Icaricia icarioides missionensis
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Attributes of Icaricia icarioides missionensis
Larva Food Source
Eriogonum fasciculatum, eriogonum umbellatum, lotus scoparius
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Icaricia icarioides missionensis is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
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Predators of Icaricia icarioides missionensis Larvae
Ants, wasps, birds, spiders, rodents
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Predators of Adult Icaricia icarioides missionensis
Birds, spiders, rodents, praying mantises, lizards
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Interesting Facts About Icaricia icarioides missionensis
The larva of icaricia icarioides missionensis possesses a unique mutualistic relationship with ants, secreting a sugary substance that ants eat, in exchange for protective services.
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Scientific Classification of Icaricia icarioides missionensis
Tips for Finding Icaricia icarioides missionensis
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Youth Habitat of Icaricia icarioides missionensis
Grasslands and Prairies, Deserts and Arid Regions
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Adult Habitat of Icaricia icarioides missionensis
Grasslands and Prairies, Deserts and Arid Regions, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Icaricia icarioides missionensis
For adult icaricia icarioides missionensis, sweet substances like fruit or sugar water can serve as attractants, whereas for caterpillars, the host plants on which they feed are the natural traps.
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Habitat Preferences of Icaricia icarioides missionensis Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of icaricia icarioides missionensis are primarily deposited on the host plants, which are typically located in sunny and sheltered areas. Once hatched, the larvae remain on these plants, feeding on leaves and staying hidden from predators. During the pupal stage, icaricia icarioides missionensis caterpillars can be found attached to plant stems or nestled in leaf litter near the base of the host plant. Adult icaricia icarioides missionensis butterflies frequent flower-rich habitats for nectar and are often seen basking in open, sunny spots within grasslands or meadows. Searching for the different growth stages of icaricia icarioides missionensis requires careful examination of the host plants and surrounding vegetation in these environments.
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How and Where Can You Find Icaricia icarioides missionensis at Different Life Stages
Egg Icaricia icarioides missionensis eggs are typically laid on or near the host plants. Finding them involves carefully examining the leaves and stems of potential host plants for small, often round or ovular eggs.
Larva Icaricia icarioides missionensis larvae can be located by identifying and inspecting their host plants, looking for signs of feeding such as chewed leaves, or for the caterpillars themselves on the underside of leaves.
Pupal Icaricia icarioides missionensis pupae can be found attached to sheltered places on or near host plants. Searching for them requires looking for camouflaged chrysalises that blend in with the surroundings, often resembling a leaf or twig.
Adult Adult icaricia icarioides missionensis are most often found in areas rich with flowering plants, where they come to feed on nectar. They can be spotted flying during daylight hours, particularly in sunny spots or along the edges of woods and clearings.
Are Icaricia icarioides missionensis harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Icaricia icarioides missionensis
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Prefer Plant Type
Asteraceae
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Icaricia icarioides missionensis is a diligent pollinator, known for its contribution to the pollination of various Asteraceae flowers. It is specifically attracted to flower color and shape, indulging in the pollen for sustenance. This butterfly plays a significant role in the ecosystem, supporting plant reproduction and biodiversity.
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