The ecology and status of Thymelicus acteon (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae) in Britain
1983; Wiley; Volume: 8; Issue: 4 Linguagem: Inglês
10.1111/j.1365-2311.1983.tb00521.x
ISSN1365-2311
Autores Tópico(s)Plant and animal studies
ResumoABSTRACT. A survey was made of the local butterfly, the Lulworth Skipper ( Thymelicus acteon Rott.) in Britain. Adult numbers were estimated on most sites and the habitat was analysed. Changes in numbers were also recorded in five populations over 6 years, and some aspects of behaviour were studied. T.acteon forms closed populations. It was found in great abundance throughout its historical range, and appears both to have increased in numbers and to have spread locally. It has not extended its range. The wrong larval foodplant is quoted by some modern textbooks. T.acteon requires mature Brachypodium pinnatum Beauv. plants for breeding. Within its range, the butterfly was almost ubiquitous in areas with tall Brachypodium. The present abundance and probable increase of T.acteon is attributed to the spread of B.pinnaturn in unimproved calcareous grassland. This has occurred through a decline in grazing, both by domestic stock and, since myxomatosis, by rabbits.
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