Unique butterfly isolated for over 40,000 years discovered in Canadian Rockies

Scientists have discovered a new species of butterfly in Waterton Lakes National Park in the Canadian Rockies. This small brown butterfly, previously thought to be a type of crescent-shaped butterfly, has turned out to be a separate, extremely isolated species - Satyrium curiosolus, or "strangely isolated butterfly".

This is reported by BBC Wildlife.

The study showed that this species lives about 400 km from its closest relative and could have been isolated for over 40,000 years. According to scientists, it managed to survive in the so-called glacial "refugium" - a small area of ​​land that was not covered by ice during the last ice age.

The butterfly's uniqueness lies not only in its isolated genome, but also in its specific environment. It receives twice as much rainfall, feeds on different plant foods, and forms unique relationships with certain ant species in the larval stage. Due to its small population size, Satyrium curiosolus is closely related, but through a process of "genetic cleansing," harmful genes have likely been lost.

However, the species is still under threat. Due to its low genetic diversity and ecological specialization, it may not be able to withstand climate change. The typical solution - "genetic rescue," where closely related species are added to the population - is not suitable in this case, as it could damage the adapted genetics of the species.

The discovery of such an ancient and isolated creature is extremely rare, but scientists emphasize that new species "hidden" among insects are not the exception, but rather the rule.