Plebejus icarioides parapheres
(J.Emmel, T.Emmel & Mattoon, 1998)
Plebejus icarioides parapheres is a of the Boisduval's blue complex, originally described from California. It is currently treated as a synonym of Icaricia icarioides parapheres in some taxonomic databases. The group is associated with leguminous plants and has been subject to conservation research due to loss pressures affecting related subspecies.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Plebejus icarioides parapheres: /ˈplɛbɛ.jʊs ɪˌkɛə.riˈoʊ.iːdiːz pærəˈfiːriːz/
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Distribution
California, United States. The type locality and specific range within California are not detailed in available sources.
Host Associations
- Leguminosae - larval plantThe group is associated with legume plants; specific hosts for this not documented
Similar Taxa
- Icaricia icarioides fenderiClosely related in the same , distinguished by geographic range and subtle morphological differences
- Plebejus acmonSimilar small blue in the same region, but with different wing pattern elements and plant associations
More Details
Taxonomic Note
This was originally described in the Plebejus but is currently synonymized under Icaricia icarioides parapheres in GBIF and some other taxonomic databases. The Plebejus/Icaricia generic distinction remains under debate among lepidopterists.
Conservation Context
Related in the Icaricia icarioides complex, particularly I. i. fenderi (Fender's blue), have been the focus of intensive conservation research and recovery efforts. This highlights the importance of understanding and requirements across the .