description Karner Blue Overview
The Karner Blue (Plebejus melissa samuelis) is a small butterfly native to North America, notable for its strict dependence on wild lupine (Lupinus perennis) as the sole food source for its caterpillars. The species was classified by novelist and lepidopterist Vladimir Nabokov in 1944. It is federally listed as endangered in the United States, with populations diminished by habitat loss across its historic range in the Great Lakes and northeastern regions.
help Karner Blue FAQ
What plant does the Karner Blue caterpillar eat?
Karner Blue caterpillars depend on wild lupine, Lupinus perennis, as their sole larval food plant. Without healthy wild-lupine patches, the butterfly cannot complete its life cycle.
What is the scientific name of the Karner Blue?
The Karner Blue is Plebejus melissa samuelis, a subspecies of the Melissa Blue butterfly. Vladimir Nabokov, who was both a novelist and lepidopterist, classified the subspecies.
Where does the Karner Blue live?
It is native to parts of North America, especially open sandy habitats and prairie-like barrens where wild lupine grows. The species has historically been associated with regions including New York, Wisconsin, and Michigan.
Why is the Karner Blue considered threatened?
The main problem is the loss of open habitat and wild-lupine patches through development, succession, and fire suppression. The butterfly was listed as endangered under the United States Endangered Species Act in 1992.
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