The Lake Wales Ridge in Florida is known for its unique and diverse ecosystem, including several rare and endemic butterfly species. Here are some of the most important butterfly larval host plants found in Florida and the Lake Wales Ridge region:
1. Pawpaw (Asimina spp.): The Zebra Swallowtail (Eurytides marcellus) relies on pawpaw trees as its primary larval host plant. Pawpaw is a small deciduous tree native to the eastern United States.
2. Wild Lime (Zanthoxylum fagara): The Giant Swallowtail (Papilio cresphontes) depends on wild lime as its primary host plant. Wild lime is a native shrub or small tree with aromatic leaves found in scrub habitats.
3. Corkystem Passionvine (Passiflora suberosa): Several species of Gulf Fritillary (Agraulis vanillae) butterflies use corkystem passionvine as their main host plant. This vine is commonly found in open areas and scrub habitats of the Lake Wales Ridge.
4. Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens): The Florida White (Appias drusilla) butterfly relies on saw palmetto as its primary larval host plant. Saw palmetto is a low-growing palm species found in sandy habitats throughout Florida.
5. Coontie (Zamia spp.): The Atala (Eumaeus atala) butterfly depends on coontie plants as its exclusive larval host. Coontie is a cycad native to Florida, and it is a critical plant for the survival of this endangered butterfly species.
6. Milkweed (Asclepias spp.): Several species of butterflies, including the Monarch (Danaus plexippus) and the Queen (Danaus gilippus), utilize various milkweed species as larval host plants. Milkweed plants are essential for these butterflies’ survival as they provide food for their caterpillars and serve as a source of toxins that protect them from predators.
These are just a few examples of the important butterfly larval host plants found in the Lake Wales Ridge region.
Protecting and preserving these native plants is crucial for maintaining the biodiversity and supporting the populations of these beautiful butterflies.. one day at a time!
The Adventures of Johnny Butterflyseed – Author Signed First Edition Children’s Book
Save the monarchs!
Johnny Butterflyseed and his fairy friend, Raven Silverwing, embark on a mission to save the rapidly disappearing butterflies. They enlist the help of Queen Venus Goldwing and her kingdom of monarchs to educate and inspire kids to become butterfly farmers. At first, Johnny faces his own internal struggle with self-doubt and fear in his ability to make a difference, but then soon develops a mindset that allows him to not only get started, but also make progress one day at a time. Through challenge after challenge, Johnny learns that he is not alone in his mission and that there are many people who want to help. Together, Johnny, Raven, and Queen Venus educate thousands of children on becoming butterfly farmers.