Apollo Jewel Butterfly, Hypochrysops apollo apollo

Problem:
Clearing of coastal paperbark country between Tully and Ingham has destroyed much of this butterfly's habitat.  The clearing is destroying Ant-plants inside which Apollo Jewels must breed.  People taking  Ant-plants have further reduced this butterfly's ability to breed.

Background information:
Apollo Jewel Butterflies lay eggs on Ant-plants (Myrmecodia beccarii) which are inhabited by colonies of ants (Iridomyrmex).  The ants carry newly hatched butterfly larvae into their nests and protect them in exchange for a sugary secretion exuded from the larvae's backs.  The larvae of the butterfly graze on the inside walls of the Ant-plant and sometimes on the leaves at night.

Research:
The Apollo Jewel Butterfly is found only where Ant-plants grow in northern Queensland.  Research at James Cook University has drawn attention to their desperate state.

Solution:
Protect and rehabilitate remaining paperbark swamps and coastal lowlands.  Educate people about the critical importance of Ant-plants to the Apollo Jewel Butterfly's chances of survival.

The next species is the Richmond Birdwing Butterfly