The Apollo Butterfly: How Genome Research and Habitat Studies Drive Conservation Efforts

The Apollo butterfly (Parnassius apollo), a species of conservation concern throughout Europe, is emblematic of the delicate balance between genetic adaptation and environmental stability in alpine and coastal ecosystems. As climate change and habitat degradation increasingly threaten its survival, conservationists are combining genome sequencing and habitat-specific studies to understand the underlying mechanisms that drive its resilience and vulnerabilities. This integrative approach provides a model for targeted conservation strategies that address both genetic and environmental challenges.

Genome Sequencing: Illuminating Adaptive Mechanisms in the Apollo Butterfly

The recent sequencing of the Apollo butterfly’s genome offers profound insights into the evolutionary and adaptive processes that underpin its survival in high-altitude and rocky coastal environments. Genomic analysis reveals gene variants associated with physiological traits that enable the Apollo to cope with temperature extremes, such as enhanced cold tolerance and seasonal metabolic adaptations. These traits are crucial in the butterfly’s current alpine habitats, where climate-induced temperature fluctuations are increasingly common. Identifying these genetic markers allows conservation biologists to model potential impacts of further environmental changes, facilitating more predictive conservation approaches that anticipate gene-environment interactions.

Habitat Shifts Under Climate Change: Implications for Population Viability

Habitat studies have illustrated the significant influence of climate change on the Apollo butterfly’s spatial distribution. Temperature increases drive the species to higher altitudes, where habitat availability diminishes, leading to more fragmented populations and lower genetic diversity. Studies conducted in the Archipelago Sea indicate that Apollo occupancy has decreased even in areas where host plant (Sedum telephium) populations remain stable, suggesting that temperature and precipitation changes impact Apollo survival independently of host plant abundance. These findings underline the importance of maintaining heterogeneous habitats that provide microclimates, which may buffer populations against climatic extremes and mitigate the risks associated with habitat fragmentation.

Anthropogenic Pressures: Fragmentation and Morphological Stress Indicators

Research highlights that habitat fragmentation due to human development, including road construction and tourism, has measurable impacts on the Apollo butterfly’s morphology, such as changes in wing symmetry linked to increased environmental stress. These morphological indicators suggest that habitat disturbance not only constrains population distribution but also reduces individual fitness by disrupting essential behavioural patterns, such as mate-finding and migration. Habitat fragmentation also restricts gene flow, further compromising the species’ adaptive potential. The accumulation of these stressors demonstrates the need for contiguous, protected landscapes that support not only Apollo butterfly populations but also their associated ecological networks.

LIFE Apollo2020: A Genomic and Ecological Approach to Conservation

The LIFE Apollo2020 project integrates genomic insights and habitat data to design conservation interventions that address both the Apollo butterfly’s genetic needs and its specific environmental requirements. Habitat restoration and protection efforts under this project are informed by genetic data that identify populations with lower diversity and potential vulnerability, allowing targeted management practices. By preserving critical habitats and supporting gene flow among populations, LIFE Apollo2020 aims to enhance population viability, reducing the risks posed by genetic bottlenecks and isolated habitats. This project exemplifies a modern conservation approach that leverages genomic research to adapt management practices to the unique characteristics of each population.

Implications for Broader Conservation Models

The combined application of genome mapping and habitat-specific studies in Apollo butterfly conservation sets a precedent for addressing the complexities of biodiversity loss under climate change. Genomic data allows conservationists to pinpoint adaptive genetic traits that are vital for species survival, while habitat studies highlight the immediate ecological pressures threatening these traits. For the Apollo butterfly, this integrative approach ensures that conservation strategies are both proactive and scientifically grounded, providing a comprehensive framework for maintaining resilience in biodiversity hotspots. Protecting this species and its habitat not only preserves a unique component of alpine and coastal ecosystems but also reinforces the broader ecological networks essential to biodiversity stability.

Hands-On learning with the Apollo in Austria

As part of the LIFEApollo2020 project, several engaging workshops were held across Austrian schools this year to introduce students to the Apollo butterfly (Parnassius apollo) and its importance in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Through hands-on activities and the creation of a dedicated Apollo garden, students learned about the unique needs of this species and how conservation efforts can protect it.

In Spring, the austrian project team, together with butterfly expert Otto Feldner, organized engaging workshops in Austrian schools to introduce students to the captivating life of the Apollo butterfly. Each workshop began with an interactive overview of the Apollo butterfly’s lifecycle, guiding students through each stage from egg to caterpillar, pupa, and finally, the adult butterfly. By exploring the specific needs of the Apollo butterfly at each stage we aimed for students to develop a deeper respect for its lifecycle and understand the importance of habitat preservation. They learned about the butterfly’s reliance on specific feeding plants, with adult butterflies (imagines) depending on nectar sources like pincushion flowers, knapweeds and thistle, while caterpillars (larvae) feed exclusively on Sedum species such as Sedum albumSedum sexangulare, or Sedum telephium maximum. Without these plants, it wouldn’t be possible to maintain the delicate balance essential for the Apollo butterfly’s survival.

Through lectures and followed up group and individual works, students explored the concept of an Umbrella species” and how conserving a single species, like Parnassius apollo, can have widespread benefits for its entire ecosystem. An umbrella species is one whose protection indirectly shields many other species within the same habitat. Since the Apollo butterfly has very specific habitat and dietary needs, ensuring that its environment remains intact requires maintaining a rich diversity of native plants, clean soil, minimal human disturbance and polution levels. This, in turn, creates a suitable habitat for countless other organisms that share the same space. This learning experience not only educated students on butterfly conservation but also hopefully deepened their appreciation for the interconnectedness of nature.

In collaboration with students, an Apollo Garden was established at a school in Mittersill, Austria, as part of the LIFEApollo2020 project. This garden serves as a dedicated small-scale habitat for Apollo butterflies and other pollinators, allowing students to actively participate in conservation. Together, they designed and created a vibrant space, carefully planting Sedum species essential for caterpillars, as well as seeds of a variety of nectar-rich flowers like pincushion flowers, thistles, and field scabious, which provide food for adult butterflies. The garden also includes stones and sunlit areas, mimicking the natural rocky habitats that Apollo butterflies prefer.

Students and teachers learned practical gardening techniques to make environments more butterfly-friendly, such as selecting the right plants, ensuring good soil conditions, and creating sheltering spots. Creating the Apollo Garden allowed students to experience how conservation can begin in their own community. They learned that even small gardens can act as “stepping stones” for butterflies and other pollinators, aiding in migration and enhancing local biodiversity.

Dogs on a Mission: Conserving Wildlife with Naturschutzhunde

Conservation efforts are evolving with new and innovative approaches. One of our most exciting tools is the Naturschutzhunde, or conservation dogs. These specially trained dogs are helping us protect nature and endangered species, playing a vital role in our conservation projects. Their incredible sense of smell makes them indispensable partners in our mission to preserve biodiversity.

Dogs have long served as valuable companions, but their roles have expanded far beyond traditional uses like hunting or guarding. Today, dogs are involved in many fields, including law enforcement, rescue operations, and now, conservation. Over the last 30 years, they have become essential in research and environmental protection projects, including the LIFEApollo2020 project and the Verein NATURSCHUTZHUNDE.

What Are Naturschutzhunde?

Naturschutzhunde are detection dogs trained to find specific wildlife or environmental clues. These dogs can detect traces of elusive or rare species through clues like droppings, nests, feathers, or seeds. For example, they can identify the presence of wolves, helping to inform herding protection measures. They also help track species like lynxes, golden jackals, and wildcats, assisting conservationists in learning more about their distribution.

Here, Naturschutzhunde have become key members of our team, helping us monitor and protect endangered species. These dogs allow us to gather accurate data efficiently while minimizing human disturbance in sensitive areas.

Training the Dogs

Training a Naturschutzhund is a complex process. These dogs learn to detect species-specific markers like larvae, droppings, or nests. Once trained, they can cover large areas quickly and with great accuracy, detecting traces of wildlife that are invisible to the human eye.

The training, based on positive reinforcement, teaches dogs to recognize specific scents and clearly indicate them to their handlers. Suitable candidates for this work are physically fit dogs that enjoy using their noses and can work long hours in challenging terrain. This certification process ensures that the dogs meet high standards before they begin working in the field.

The Role of Naturschutzhunde in the LIFEApollo2020 Project

In the LIFEapollo2020 project, we rely on Naturschutzhunde to monitor and protect Apollo butterfly populations in Austria. This initiative aims to restore the butterfly’s populations across Austria, Poland, and the Czech Republic. The dogs play a critical role in these monitoring efforts across 15 regions in Austria.

How Naturschutzhunde Help:

  1. Finding Larvae: Our dogs are trained to locate Apollo larvae in Sedum-rich areas, which are often difficult to reach. The dogs’ ability to detect larvae is essential to our work.
  2. Accessing Remote Areas: Many of the Apollo’s habitats are located in mountainous regions that are hard for humans to access. Naturschutzhunde help us cover these areas more effectively than human teams alone.

Achievements So Far

Thanks to Naturschutzhunde, we were able to detect Apollo butterfly larvae in several of the 15 areas we surveyed in 2023 and 2024. This has allowed us to protect key regions where butterfly populations remain active.

Naturschutzhunde have proven to be highly effective in various other conservation tasks as well. For instance, they are employed to locate the carcasses of birds and bats near wind turbines, helping us assess the impact of wind farms on protected species. Their superior sense of smell allows them to detect smaller remains in less time than humans.

Researching rare and hidden species often presents challenges, as direct observation is difficult. Scientists typically rely on indirect evidence like droppings, hair, or remains of prey. Naturschutzhunde are excellent at locating these traces, working much faster and more accurately than human researchers. Several of our dog-handler teams are already engaged in scientific projects, further advancing conservation efforts.

Conclusion

Naturschutzhunde have become vital partners in our mission to protect endangered species. Their work in the LIFEapollo2020 project highlights how effective they are in helping safeguard wildlife and fragile ecosystems. As we look to the future, we are confident that these conservation dogs will continue to play an essential role in preserving Austria’s—and Europe’s—natural heritage.

In a world where the connection between humans and nature is more critical than ever, Naturschutzhunde are helping bridge that gap. Their unique abilities allow them to protect endangered species while fostering a deeper bond between humans and the natural world

Learn about butterflies day: how the evolution of Lepidoptera contributed to a world full of colors

Today is the Learn about butterflies day! Let us dive a little bit into the evolutionary history of butterflies, and we can readily establish that indeed these insects should be celebrated! One of many reasons why, is the fact that without them, the world would not have been as brightly colored as it is now.

The order Lepidoptera

Lepidoptera, the order of insects which includes butterflies and moths, is one of the largest and most widespread insect orders in the world, with about 160,000 described species. In the last decades, research to Lepidoptera evolution has become more and more advanced (https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/pdf/10.1146/annurev-ento-031616-035125). The first research started in the 1970s with morphological studies, i.e., research into the shape and form of Lepidoptera species to classify them in different classes. Later, research advanced to the use of molecular techniques to acquire elaborate data on DNA sequences. This enabled researchers to classify about 46 superfamilies within the Lepidoptera group.

The oldest Lepidopteran fossil is from an organism living in the early Jurassic (193 million years ago). Unfortunately, the Lepidopteran fossil record is limited due to the high fragility of the scale-covered wings and bodies. Still, data suggests that the Lepidoptera order played a huge role in the large-scale radiation and diversification of angiosperms (flowering plants). Angiosperms are now the most diverse and largest group within the plant kingdom, with about 300.000 species, representing 80% of all known green plants. They are the plants that produce flowers and seeds.

Coevolution

But how can butterflies influence the formation of so many different species of flowering plants? This happened because of the process of coevolution. Coevolution is the evolutionary change of multiple populations or species as a result of the interactions between those populations or species. Butterflies feed on nectar, which could be produced by the angiosperms. Angiosperms are insect-pollinated plants, meaning that the transport of reproductive material relies on insect traffic going from one plant to another. So, both species groups depend on each other to survive and reproduce. This led to the opportunity for even more specific plant-pollinator  interactions. 

A pollinator can be generalized, i.e., it can feed on multiple species of nectariferous plants, or it can be specialized, i.e., it has specific features that are compatible with only one nectariferous species. The same applies for the plants, they can be pollinated by several species or they can be specialized and adapt in such a way that only one pollinator species can pollinate. Being a specializer, both as a pollinator and as a plant, comes with certain advantages. For the plant, pollination can become more efficient and less pollen is wasted. For the pollinator, a ‘private’ food source means less competition with other species. This ‘selective advantage’ to become specializers led to the great diversification of Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) and angiosperms (flowering plants). 

Coevolution: P. apollo and its host plants

What does this mean for the Apollo butterfly and its host plants? The Apollo butterfly lives on open, rocky slopes and alpine meadows in the mountains. It is specialized to feed on the plants that occur in these habitats and the plants depend on the Apollo for pollination and thereby their reproduction. This shows the delicate interactive balance between flora and fauna in these ecosystems, and the necessity to preserve all the important actors.

So let’s celebrate today as The learn about butterflies day and take some time to appreciate their role in the evolution of flowers!

To extra celebrate the Apollo butterfly, you can now test your knowledge in a quiz! Browse our website for information if you do not know the answer and try to get as many points as possible. 

Who do you think came first, the butterfly or the flowering plant?

Livestock Grazing’s Role in Preserving Apollo’s Habitat

By Vlado Vancura

Domestic grazers, like livestock, might seem to be an unexpected ally for Apollo butterflies. Their role in creating a suitable habitat for this butterfly is fascinating. When the livestock graze, they systematically remove the emerging sprouts of trees and shrubs. That is their way how maintaining an open landscape. It is a process that helps to diversify meadows and preserves the open landscape that P. apollo thrive.

In the past, the role of creating suitable habitats, not only for Apollo butterflies but also for various other insects, was primarily fulfilled by native grazers like red deer, roe deer, wild goats, wild horses, European bison, or also the extinct auroch. These wild herbivores played a crucial part in shaping the landscape through their feeding behavior, preventing excessive growth of shrubs and trees. The unintentional impact of these grazers resulted in the removal of growing shrubs and young trees, maintaining open spaces. These open spaces allowed sunlight to reach the ground, establishing and sustaining the specific conditions vital for the life of Parnasius apollo. Simultaneously, this natural process diversified plant life, offering a variety of nectar sources for butterflies and host plants for their larvae.

Today, domestic animals such as cows, sheep, goats, and horses play a comparable function in habitat preservation to native grazers. The grazing actions of these domestic grazers help to create open spaces and allow sunlight to reach the ground. As a result, domestic grazers actively encourage the growth of a wide range of plant species that serve as nectar supplies for adult butterflies (imagines) and host plants for larvae. With careful management, domestic grazers can become collaborative partners in biodiversity conservation. This example vividly demonstrates how human actions, when coordinated with natural rhythms, can considerably benefit the well-being of P. apollo butteflies.

Grazing behaviours varies among domestic grazers. Sheep carefully nibble close to the ground, resulting in properly groomed areas.  As browsers, goats extend their reach to shrub leaves and twigs, causing vegetation to change structure. Cattle use a sweeping grazing motion to impact bigger areas.  Each species makes a distinctive contribution to the shaping of environment. Understanding and applying the various grazing habits of numerous domestic grazers allows us to build a balance that closely matches natural processes and in which also Apollo butterflies can thrive.

Today, the thriving habitat of the Parnassius Apollo, encompassing alpine and subalpine grasslands, dry calcareous grasslands, and slopes in upland areas, faces a threat from uncontrolled vegetation overgrowth. The delicate balance crucial for supporting the unique flora essential to the butterfly’s life cycle depends on well-maintained open spaces. Ensuring stable Apollo populations necessitates a habitat that provides both food plants for the larvae and nectareous plants for the adults. Domestic pastures provide as a safeguard, preventing spontaneous overgrowth, which happens quickly when grazing is reduced or stopped. Strategic grazing management, particularly with the help of goats, proves effective in reducing the vegetation growth and protecting a vital environment for the Parnassius apollo.

This demonstrates how coordinated conservation efforts, particularly through effective domestic animal grazing management, can be realised. When faced with the difficulty of protecting important open spaces, incorporating grazing practices emerges as a viable solution to ensure Parnassius apollo’s existence. It provides a compelling model for harmonious interaction with the environment while preserving the captivating world of these butterflies.

2024: Mosel’s Apollo crowned as Butterfly of the Year!

In 2024, the charming Mosel region has crowned the Apollo Butterfly as its Butterfly of the Year! This magnificent insect has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike with its vibrant beauty and captivating charm. Choosing the apollo for Butterfly of the Year, a decision which was also influenced by nature conservation organisations such as BUND NRW, has a worrying background: In the Mosel region, pesticides are still used that send apollo population down a dark path.

The Mosel wine region in Germany is not only renowned for its picturesque landscapes and world-class wines but also for the unique ecosystem that thrives there. However, this delicate balance of nature is now under threat as the use of pesticides in the vineyards has begun to take a toll on the insects resident in the Mosel region, including the Parnassius apollo. The decrease of individuals in the Mosel region correlates with the use of pesticides in recent years. Pesticides are spread by helicopters and it is particularly noteworthy that at least the new substances used in recent times are applied without any nature conservation impact assessment.

The subpopulation of the Mosel region, namely Parnassius apollo ssp. vinningensis, only exists in this particular region. It differs slightly from apollo subspecies in the Alps, Sweden or from those found in Spain. Beyond its visual appeal, the Apollo Butterfly possesses an intriguing life cycle. The species is known for its preference for high-altitude habitats, making the Mosel region an ideal home if it were not for applied chemicals and pesticides.

The Apollo Butterfly’s recognition as Butterfly of the Year is a testament to its vibrant beauty and captivating charm. At the same time, however, it is a warning. Like in many other European regions as well as in Germany, the apollo population of the Mosel region is declining rapidly and is in great danger of extinction. Alternatives for harmful pesticides must be found if this beautiful butterfly should be protected. Moreover, it is essential to preserve the habitats that this species relies on. By protecting their preferred host plants and maintaining the natural balance of the ecosystem, the magnificent butterflies can thrive. In the Mosel region, visitors still flock to the area to witness the Apollo Butterfly in its natural habitat, with guided tours and educational programs providing an opportunity to learn more about this enchanting species. This might change in the future though if nothing is done right now.

The Apollo Butterfly’s striking appearance and graceful flight have also inspired artists and designers in the region. Their unique patterns and colors have been incorporated into various forms of art, from paintings to jewelry. Local festivals and events now celebrate the Apollo Butterfly, with dedicated butterfly-themed exhibitions and workshops. These festivities not only showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage but also raise awareness about the importance of preserving biodiversity and the delicate balance of nature.

As we celebrate the Apollo Butterfly being crowned as the Butterfly of the Year in 2024, we are reminded of the beauty and wonder that nature bestows upon us. We are also reminded of the harm humans can do to other creatures smaller and weaker than us if we do not realise that we are part of the natural ecosystem.

Parnassius apollo history and trophic preferences

Parnassius apollo belongs to a group of butterflies, which presence in Europe has a long history. We need to take a look into the past if we want to get to know the roots of this beautiful species. We would have to travel back to the time period called the Neogene.

The Neogene is a geological period, which informally is divided into either the Upper Tertiary or Late Tertiary. This period lasted from 20.6 to 2.6 million years ago, to the beginning of the present Quaternary Period. The Quaternary Period spans from the Neogene to today. 

More on the topic: Apollo in winter

Glacial and interglacial periods 

During the long period of the Neogene, the land was heavily glaciated. Glaciers appeared and retreated several times. Those periods when glaciers retreated are known as interglacial episodes. 

These periods of warm climate provided an opportunity for the animal and plant life to develop, to later be swept away by the glacier and then develop again and again. This process heavily impacted butterflies, including Parnassius apollo

Diversity of life

Research revealed that during these long periods of interglacial episodes, despite the fact that all life was swept out by huge glaciers, it repeatedly revived. This created remarkable diversity again and again. The result of this process was the enormous diversification of life.

For example, Parnassius apollo developed into more than 200 identified subspecies, which mainly inhabit grassland environments in the lowland and mountainous areas throughout Europe. 

Sedum plant provides food for many species of butterflies, including Parnassius species

Parnassius apollo trophic preferences

Food is a vitally important precondition for the favourable status of Parnassius species. According to trophic preferences, two main groups of Parnassius developed. One group that prefers Sedum telephium, and another that feed mainly on Sedum album.

Sedum is a large genus of flowering perennial plants. Sedum species are herbs and have fleshy leaves and stems, which store water very well. This group of plants contains up to 400–500 species. Even today, Sedum provides food to many species of butterflies, including Parnassius species.

Conclusion

For the protection of the individual species or the entire Parnassius genus of butterflies, it is important to know what their key habitats and food needs are. This knowledge could help us identify what kind of ecosystems and biomes have been removed due to human activity and why food is not available for these butterfly species. In the following steps, activities during the restoration process should focus on recovering these extinct biomes.

The Parnassius apollo, commonly known as the Apollo butterfly, needs a very specific diet requirement for its survival and reproduction. Its larvae rely solely on specific Sedum plant species. This specialized diet is crucial for the survival and development of the Apollo butterfly throughout its life cycle. This dependence on particular plants underscores the delicate ecological relationships and the importance of preserving the habitats that support these unique species.

Vlado Vancura
European Wilderness Society

#followapollo and the efforts of our team! Combined skills in breeding, conservation of habitats, research, environmental education, and project management constitute a great combination for the success of our LIFE project

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