The Population Biology of Alpine Insects, Plants, and Their Interactions 

Natural History

Our main study species is the Rocky Mountain Apollo butterfly, Parnassius smintheus Doubleday. At our site larvae of this species feed on two host plants Lance-leaved stonecrop, Sedum lanceolatum and Ledge stonecrop, Rhodiola integrifolia. These species mainly occur in alpine and subalpine habitats above tree-line. The butterfly, like its host plants, occurs above tree-line. Adult butterflies nectar predominantly on yellow flowers. At our site preferred species are S. lanceolatum, Alpine goldenrod (Solidago multiradiata), and False dandelion (Agoseris glauca).

These butterflies have one generation each year. P. smintheus overwinters as pharate larvae (a first instar larvae within the egg). After snowmelt larvae emerge and begin to feed on their host plants. After 5 larval stages, larvae pupate in a sheltered place. At our site adults begin to emerge in mid-July and are gone by the end of August. The average adult life-span is 7-10 days.

We also study the population and community ecology of several other plant and butterfly species, primarily common butterflies and their host plants and nectar flowers.

Our research sites are located in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada. Intensive study is conducted at Lusk, Jumpingpound and Powderface Ridges in the front ranges of the Rocky Mountains. Research is also conducted in the main range of the Rockies in Banff Park.

For additional information please contact any of the investigators.

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