Habitat use of the endangered parasitic butterfly Phengaris arion close to its northern distribution limit

摘要: Populations close to species distribution limits often differ in their habitat use from more central populations of the distribution. Knowledge ecology derived latter may therefore not be sufficient ensure successful conservation peripheral populations. In this study, we examine Phengaris (=Maculinea) arion (Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae), an endangered myrmecophilous butterfly, its northern limit (in Estonia). A particular emphasis is given interactions with other – host plant and ant use, and, as a novel aspect, adult predation by dragonflies. Phengaris was found restricted grassland patches much higher abundance than shown regions predicted suitability models. All direct observations P. arion were limited colonies Myrmica lonae, which has nowhere else been demonstrated primary butterfly. Our data thus contribute emerging understanding that can geographically remarkably diverse. The results indicate dragonfly on butterflies could essential driver patch occupancy P. arion. findings suggest top-down influences, largely neglected butterfly conservation, actually need considered.