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Acmon blue

Lycaena acmon

A species of Lycaena

Icaricia acmon, the Acmon blue, is a North American butterfly. It ranges mainly in California but can be seen north to Oregon and south through Baja California. The tops of the wings are blue with dark edges in males and brown in females. Its underside is white with black spots for both sexes with a red-orange band on the hindwing. Adults feed on nectar while caterpillars can feed on buckwheats, lupines, trefoils, and milkvetches. Like many other lycaenid butterflies, it has a mutualistic relationship with ants, who protect Acmon blue larvae in exchange for honeydew that the larvae secrete.

General Info About Acmon blue
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Attributes of Acmon blue
Colors
Black
Yellow
Gray
White
Purple
Pink
Habitat
open woodland; field; desert; prairie
Adult Food Sources
Yarrow (achillea millefolium), wild buckwheat (eriogonum spp.), thistle (cirsium spp.), manzanita (arctostaphylos spp.), lupine (lupinus spp.)
Larva Food Source
Cudweed (gnaphalium spp.), california buckwheat (eriogonum fasciculatum), deerweed (acmispon glaber), lotus scoparius, astragalus spp.
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
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Species Status of Acmon blue
Widespread and abundant
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Distribution Area of Acmon blue
North America
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Predators of Adult Acmon blue
Birds, spiders, rodents, lizards
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Interesting Facts About Acmon blue
Some acmon blue species engage in a mutualistic relationship with ants, offering them sweet secretions in exchange for protection against predators.
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Scientific Classification of Acmon blue
Tips for Finding Acmon blue
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Youth Habitat of Acmon blue
Grasslands and Prairies, Forests and Woodlands, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Acmon blue
Grasslands and Prairies, Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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When is the Best Time to Observe Acmon blue
The best time to find adult acmon blue is likely on sunny days when they are most active, particularly during the morning or late afternoon. The larval stage would be best sought after when the host plants are in active growth, which depends on the local climate.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Acmon blue
Adult acmon blue are more easily found in warm and dry weather conditions as it is conducive to their flying and nectar-feeding activities. In wet or cold conditions, they may be inactive and hidden. For larvae and pupae, moderate conditions where the host plants are thriving would be ideal.
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How and Where Can You Find Acmon blue at Different Life Stages
Egg Acmon blue eggs are typically laid on or near host plants. To find them, carefully examine the leaves of potential host plants for small, round or oval eggs.
Larva Acmon blue larvae can be found on their specific host plants. Look for them by checking the leaves and stems for signs of feeding, such as holes or chewed edges.
Pupal Acmon blue pupae may be attached to host plants or nearby structures. Find them by searching for chrysalides that are often camouflaged and may resemble parts of the plant or debris.
Adult Adult acmon blue can be found near nectar sources such as flowers. They are likely to be encountered basking in the sun on warm days, resting on leaves, or feeding. A field guide can help identify areas where they are commonly seen.
Are Acmon blue harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Acmon 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, Smell
Acmon blue is attracted to blooms through vivid color and enticing aroma. While feeding on nectar, acmon blue inadvertently collects pollen on its body, later transferring it to other flowers, aiding in plant reproduction and biodiversity.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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