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Chalkhill blue

Chalkhill blue

Polyommatus coridon

A species of Polyommatus

Adorned with a palette of blues and subtle grayish undertones, the wings of chalkhill blue shimmer when touched by sunlight, revealing a delicate spectrum of hues. Preferring calcareous grasslands, this species contributes to pollination, fluttering from flower to flower with a preference for Fabaceae blooms. The larvae engage in a mutualistic relationship with ant colonies, offering a sweet secretion in exchange for protection, showcasing a fascinating example of interspecies cooperation.

General Info About Chalkhill blue
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Attributes of Chalkhill blue
Colors
Brown
Black
Gray
White
Blue
Orange
Habitat
This would be physical features of the environment that separate populations of the same species. One type of would be mountain ranges which separate west and east population of L. coridon, and this separation causes there to be changes in the allele frequency of both population and there can be mixing of these populations only when there is an area that is connected. Another type would be the loss of habitat which can lead to large habitat areas being fragmented, this loss can occur due to human interaction with the ecosystem in way that isolates populations of the species. The loss of habitat changes the number of individuals that the area can support or blocks the population off from a larger population. The limiting number of individuals in the population or the isolation can cause a decrease in the heterogeneity of population and leads to a decrease in fitness. Habitat fragmentation causes conservation efforts to be difficult because it has to be decided what areas get protect or have the best possible chance of helping increase a population without damaging the overall fitness of the population, so great care is taken when selecting what areas will be protected.
Adult Food Sources
Thistles, knapweed, marjoram, vetches, clovers
Larva Food Source
Hippocrepis comosa (horseshoe vetch), chamaecytisus ratisbonensis, chamaecytisus austriacus, oxytropis pilosa, medicago romanica
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Chalkhill blue is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Chalkhill blue
Since this species is of Least Concern there are few conservation efforts being put forth. But in certain areas that have been having large decline or had large decline implemented conservation efforts. This species is considered by researchers to be an indicator species of calcareous grassland habitat quality and could also be a good model organism to help develop conservation programs for more At Risk species. Conservation in the United Kingdom, Germany, and Poland All three countries have done research into the conservation of the calcareous grassland. Protecting this species would also lead to helping protect higher trophic level individuals that are located in this ecosystem. United Kingdom The chalkhill blue experienced a significant decline in population number in the 1950s. There was a rise in population between 1981 and 2000. In this time period there was a significant increase in numbers and this led to the stabilization of the population in the 1990s. The UK Biodiversity Action Plan had monitoring plans in place to see these changes and the data that was collected during that time period showed that the increase in population number came from the use of controlling grazing levels, conservation designation, and agri-environment schemes entry and management. These practices improved the quality of the habitats that were located in the United Kingdom. Germany and Poland Both Germany and Poland came up with action plans such as that if conservation efforts where to take place that the ideal area for protection would be large habitats that were interconnected with other Grassland habitats that were fragmented, and had a high abundance of the juvenile host plant located within it or had the ability to support a large number of plants.
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Distribution Area of Chalkhill blue
Geographical range This species can be found in the Palearctic realm (western Europe, southern Europe, central Europe, Asia Minor, south Urals, and northwest Turan). The range of L. coridon occurs throughout Central Europe, and is endemic to Europe. There are a few exceptions to where it is located in Central Europe, it is not found in the countries of Ireland, Scotland, Scandinavia, the Netherlands, the Iberian Peninsula (except in the northern provinces of Iberia), the Mediterranean islands (found in Corsica and Sardinia), and most of southern Italy. Habitat This particular species of butterfly has a preference for dry calcareous grasslands, at an elevation of 100–2,000 metres (330–6,560 ft) above sea level. This species also has a preference towards grasslands that have short grass with many flowering plants. L. coridon is a sedentary organism which means that they do not travel very far within their habitat range. These individuals have the tendency to stay within their habitat patch rather than perform long migrations to find new habitats.
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Life Cycle of Chalkhill blue
Egg The egg phase marks the beginning of the chalkhill blue's life cycle. The tiny, spherical eggs are often laid on plants and exhibit a color that helps in camouflaging them from predators.
Larva Upon hatching, the larvae or caterpillar of the chalkhill blue feed voraciously on host plants. This stage sees the most growth, with a series of molts where it sheds its skin to accommodate its increasing size.
Pupal Transitioning into a pupa, the chalkhill blue encases itself within a chrysalis, adhering to a substrate. Inside, it undergoes remarkable transformation where its tissues are reorganized into the adult form.
Adult The final stage sees the chalkhill blue emerge as an adult butterfly. Distinctive, brightly colored wings are unfolded and dried, and the insect is now sexually mature, focusing on reproduction and nectar feeding.
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Predators of Chalkhill blue Larvae
Birds, rodents, ants, spiders, wasps, pathogens (such as fungi and bacteria)
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Predators of Adult Chalkhill blue
Birds, spiders, mantis, rodents, lizards, frogs, ants
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Interesting Facts About Chalkhill blue
The larvae of chalkhill blue engage in a mutualistic relationship with ants, secreting a sweet substance to attract them and in return receiving protection from predators.
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Scientific Classification of Chalkhill blue
Tips for Finding Chalkhill blue
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Youth Habitat of Chalkhill blue
Grasslands and Prairies
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Adult Habitat of Chalkhill blue
Grasslands and Prairies, Forests and Woodlands
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How Can You Attract Chalkhill blue
Since chalkhill blue is a butterfly, one effective trap is to use bait that mimics the nectar of flowers. Rotten fruits or sweet mixtures can attract chalkhill blue when placed in an open, flower-rich environment.
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Habitat Preferences of Chalkhill blue Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of chalkhill blue are typically laid on the underside of leaves of specific host plants, often found in calcareous grasslands. During the larval stage, they can be found on or near the host plants, feeding on leaves. The caterpillars occasionally engage with ants which can lead seekers to venture near ant trails or nests on grasslands while searching. Pupae of chalkhill blue often remain hidden in the vegetation or soil, close to the host plant. Adults are usually seen fluttering in sunny, flowery meadows or grasslands, where they feed on nectar. To observe the different stages, one must explore these grassland habitats, thoroughly inspecting host plants and being attentive to ant interactions, especially during the peak flight season.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Chalkhill blue
The best time to find adult chalkhill blue would be on warm, sunny days, preferably in the late morning or early afternoon when they are most active and nectar-seeking.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Chalkhill blue
Dry and warm conditions with minimal wind are ideal for finding chalkhill blue as they are more likely to fly and feed in such weather. Overcast days with intermittent sunshine can also be opportune, as chalkhill blue may bask in spots of sunlight for warmth.
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How and Where Can You Find Chalkhill blue at Different Life Stages
Egg Chalkhill blue eggs are tiny and usually laid on specific host plants. Inspect the undersides of leaves and among plant stems for clusters of small, round, or ovular eggs.
Larva Chalkhill blue larvae can often be located by looking on or near the host plants upon which they feed. Search for caterpillars by examining leaves for signs of chewing, following silk trails, or looking for frass (caterpillar droppings).
Pupal Chalkhill blue chrysalises can be more challenging to find since they blend in with their surroundings for camouflage. They are often attached to plant stems or concealed in leaf litter. Search gently around potential host plants and in nearby sheltered areas such as piles of leaves or twigs.
Adult Chalkhill blue adults will be actively flying and feeding on nectar. Look for them in sunlit areas with abundant flowers. Meadows, grasslands, and edges of woodlands are good habitats to explore. Pay attention to flowering plants, particularly those native to chalkhill blue's environment as these are likely feeding sites.
Are Chalkhill blue harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Chalkhill blue
Discover the hidden benefits of insects
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
Attract Plant Feature
Color
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Chalkhill blue is an active pollinator, often seen fluttering from flower to flower. It is attracted to the vibrant colors of flowers, and while it consumes pollen for sustenance, it inadvertently transfers pollen to other flowers, aiding in their reproduction. It plays a subtle yet significant role in the ecosystem.
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