Introduction to the Purple Copper Butterfly
The purple copper butterfly, Paralucia spinifera, is a rare insect species endemic to specific habitat pockets within the New South Wales Central Tablelands. This butterfly measures approximately the size of a 10-cent coin and is recognized for its iridescent wings, which can display shades of purple, blue, copper, and green.
Habitat and Life Cycle Requirements
This butterfly's survival is contingent upon specific environmental conditions. It exclusively inhabits areas where a particular subspecies of native blackthorn (Bursaria spinosa) grows, specifically at elevations of 850 meters or higher. Additionally, the butterfly requires precise daily sunlight exposure.
A crucial aspect of its life cycle involves a symbiotic relationship with an ant species. After hatching, purple copper butterfly caterpillars are transported by ants to feed on blackthorn leaves at night. During the day, ants return the caterpillars to underground nests, protecting them from predators. In exchange, the caterpillars secrete a sugary honeydew from a gland on their backs, which serves as a food source for the ants. Adult butterflies typically have a lifespan of approximately three weeks, during which they mate and lay eggs.
Meadow Flat Public School's Conservation Initiative
Students and staff at Meadow Flat Public School, located near Lithgow and comprising 30 students, have initiated efforts to support the purple copper butterfly. The school has established a garden featuring over 60 native blackthorn saplings, with additional plantings planned. This action aims to expand the available food source for the butterfly.
Alison Cowie, a threatened species officer with the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, outlined the butterfly's specific habitat requirements. She noted the difficulty in distinguishing the specific blackthorn subspecies essential for the butterfly, which often requires microscopic examination of leaf hairs. Chris Long, manager of the Lithgow and District Community Nursery, from whom the saplings were sourced, stated that the blackthorn subspecies grows sporadically and slowly, necessitating careful nurturing from germination.
Educational and Long-Term Goals
Lindsey Foster, the school's administration officer, confirmed that the saplings were planted with the understanding that butterfly colonization might not occur immediately, as the insects typically travel only a few meters from existing habitats. The initiative primarily serves to establish potential habitat and to educate students about the species and habitat fragmentation. Ms. Cowie highlighted that these efforts contribute to students' understanding of native flora and the butterfly's life cycle, fostering future stewardship for the species.
Christine Bailey, an author from Bathurst, has contributed to educational efforts by writing "The Purple Copper's Secret," a children's book illustrating the butterfly's unique life cycle. Two hundred copies of the first print were distributed to public schools within the Bathurst and Lithgow educational districts.