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Inyo blue

Inyo blue

Lycaeides melissa

A species of Lycaeides, Also known as Annetta blue

The Melissa blue (Plebejus melissa) is a butterfly of the family Lycaenidae. It is found in western North America, from Canada to Mexico. The Karner blue (Plebejus melissa samuelis) is a subspecies of the Melissa blue, and was described by the novelist/lepidopterist Vladimir Nabokov. The wingspan is 22–35 mm. Below, the hindwing orange submarginal band, often with distal iridescent blue points, help to distinguish this species from the more muted colors and markings of the similar Plebejus idas. The marginal line is wider where the veins intersect. The fringes are not checked. The butterfly flies from April to August depending on the location. The larvae feed on Lupinus, Medicago and Lotus species.

General Info About Inyo blue
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Attributes of Inyo blue
Habitat
sandy pine prairie; lakeshore dune; weedy area; prairie
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from flowers such as echinacea, aster, and buddleia
Larva Food Source
Leguminous plants like alfalfa (medicago sativa), deerweed (acmispon glaber), and golden banner (thermopsis montana)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
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Species Status of Inyo blue
Common
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Distribution Area of Inyo blue
United States
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Predators of Adult Inyo blue
Birds, mantises, spiders, rodents
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Interesting Facts About Inyo blue
Inyo blue exhibits a remarkable symbiotic relationship with ants, often referred to as myrmecophily, where the larvae secrete a sweet substance that attracts and appeases the ants.
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Scientific Classification of Inyo blue
Tips for Finding Inyo blue
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Youth Habitat of Inyo blue
Grasslands and Prairies, Mountain and Alpine Regions
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Adult Habitat of Inyo blue
Grasslands and Prairies, Mountain and Alpine Regions, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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When is the Best Time to Observe Inyo blue
The best time to find inyo blue is typically mid-morning to early afternoon when temperatures are warm and the sun is out, as these conditions are conducive to inyo blue's activity.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Inyo blue
Ideal weather conditions for finding inyo blue include sunny days with minimal wind because inyo blue are most active and easier to spot when it's not too cold, and they are less likely to be active during rainy or windy conditions.
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How and Where Can You Find Inyo blue at Different Life Stages
Egg Inyo blue eggs are usually laid on host plants. Identifying these plants and inspecting their leaves for small, round, or oval eggs is the best way to locate inyo blue at this stage.
Larva Larvae or caterpillars of inyo blue can be found on or near their host plants. Search for signs of feeding such as chewed leaves and look closely along the stems and undersides of leaves for caterpillars.
Pupal Inyo blue chrysalises are often camouflaged and can be found attached to plant stems or leaves, within leaf litter on the ground, or other sheltered areas. Careful examination of potential pupation sites on or near the host plants is essential for locating inyo blue at this stage.
Adult Adult inyo blue can be found feeding on flower nectar or basking in the sun during the day. Walking through meadows, gardens, or other areas with an abundance of flowering plants and waiting quietly near flowers popular with inyo blue can increase chances of spotting them.
Are Inyo blue harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Inyo blue
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Hurt Plant

The larva of inyo blue feast on leaves, which could lead to defoliation ranging from mild to severe. Active consumption can stunt growth, reduce photosynthesis, and even cause death in extreme infestations.

More Effects of Inyo blue

Beneficial Effects of Inyo blue
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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, Fabaceae
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Inyo blue is known to play a role in pollination primarily through the consumption of pollen. Its interactions with flowers are driven by its dietary needs. With a preference for Asteraceae and Fabaceae, inyo blue is attracted by the color and shape of these blooms.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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