Translations:AY Honors/Dunes/Answer Key/24/en

Karner Melissa Blue Butterfly

A federally listed as endangered butterfly, common in the west and endangered or extirpated in the east. The caterpillars feed solely on the leaves of Wild Lupine (primary), alfalfa, rattleweeds, other legumes. Savanna habitat is crucial to this butterfly’s survival, prescribed burns are necessary to keep the woody and invasive species in check. The amount of Wild Lupines and butterfly populations are directly connected. There is a population in the Indiana Dunes. There are several organizations and volunteers working together to ensure the survival of this community.