Suitability of several Quercus plants (Fagaceae) for the development of an endangered butterfly Panchala ganesa loomisi (H. Pryer) larvae (Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae)

Abstract

Larvae of an endangered (vulnerable) butterfly Panchala ganesa loomisi were reared on eight Quercus plants. All hatchlings died when they were supplied with Q. myrsinifolia. However, the mortality was low when they were supplied with Q. acuta, Q. gilva, Q. glauca, Q. phillyreoides, Q. salicina, Q. serrata and Q. sessilifolia. Adults obtained from these seven plants were larger than wild ones. Results of the experiment suggest that these seven species of Quercus are suitable as food plants of P. g. loomisi.