Multiple host-ant use by the predatory social parasite Phengaris (= Maculinea ) arion (Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae)

摘要: Phengaris (=Maculinea) arion is an endangered social parasite of Myrmica ants, and for a very long time was considered as specific to sabuleti. Previous studies carried out in Poland suggested some discrepancies within this assumption, therefore much more intensive survey undertaken. The host ant use P. studied at five sites different types biotopes Poland, i.e. xerothermal grasslands where Thymus pulegioides used larval food plant by the butterfly, or less sandy with serpyllum. Altogether nine species were recorded, considerable variation composition density nests recorded. At four localities M. sabuleti proved be most common ant. A total 529 examined, only 20 them contained larvae pupae arion. Host ants belonged species, sabuleti, scabrinodis, schencki, lobicornis hellenica. Only one site (NE Poland) significant heterogeneity parasitation rates among detected. often infested there, which may suggest local specialisation butterfly. Overall low parasitism explain vulnerability Central Europe but further are also necessary.