Clouded Apollo
Parnassius mnemosyne
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clouded_Apollo
Overview
The clouded Apollo is a butterfly species of the family of swallowtail butterflies (Papilionidae) found in the Palearctic realm. It is a large butterfly which inhabits meadows and deciduous woodland clearings with plenty of flowering plants, but cannot survive in denser forest. It is found both in the lowlands and in the mountains but not usually found at altitudes above 1,500 m (4,900 ft) except in the Central Asian mountains where it is also known from higher altitudes.
The Clouded Apollo faces significant population declines across its European range due to habitat loss and fragmentation from agricultural intensification, urbanization, and abandonment of traditional land management practices. Climate change poses additional threats by altering the distribution and phenology of both the butterfly and its host plants, while the species' specialized ecological requirements make it particularly vulnerable to environmental changes.
Habitat
Mountain meadows, alpine grasslands, and flower-rich slopes typically between 500-2000m elevation, particularly areas with abundant Corydalis species which serve as larval host plants. The species requires a mosaic of habitats including sunny, sheltered spots for adults and specific microhabitats for egg-laying and larval development.
Other threatened species in Papilionidae
Threatened in Afghanistan
Frequently asked questions
Why is Clouded Apollo classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Clouded Apollo live?
What are the main threats to Clouded Apollo?
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