Primrose Blue
Agriades aquilo
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agriades_glandon
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Primrose Blue faces severe population declines primarily due to climate change impacts on its specialized alpine habitat requirements. Rising temperatures are causing upward shifts in vegetation zones, reducing the availability of suitable high-altitude meadows where this butterfly's host plants thrive. Habitat fragmentation from infrastructure development and recreational activities in mountain regions further isolates remaining populations, limiting genetic exchange and reducing resilience to environmental changes.
Habitat
The Primrose Blue inhabits high-altitude alpine and subalpine meadows, typically found between 1,500-2,500 meters elevation in mountainous regions. This specialized butterfly requires specific microhabitats with its host plants, particularly leguminous species that grow in well-drained, rocky alpine soils with short growing seasons.
Other threatened species in Lycaenidae
Threatened in Canada
Frequently asked questions
Why is Primrose Blue classified as Endangered?
Where does Primrose Blue live?
What are the main threats to Primrose Blue?
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