Decline in Prairie Butterflies Plagues Europe
Meadow butterflies, symbolic of the ephemeral beauty and the importance of maintaining open and natural ecosystems, are facing a significant decline across Europe, according to a new report published by EFE / ECOticias.com.
The report, which analyzed more than half of the 17 common meadow butterfly species, found that they show significantly negative trends. Species such as Erebia medusa and Melitaea cinxia are among those affected. However, a few common meadow butterfly species, such as Polyommatus icarus, show a stable or positive evolution.
The data for this index was gathered from the European Butterfly Monitoring Scheme (eBMS), with the ICTS-Doñana of the Biological Station of Doñana (EBD-CSIC) in Spain providing data on the situation of butterflies in protected areas. The decline is based on data from monitoring 22 European countries collected between 1991 and 2023.
Meadow butterflies act as sentinels of seminatural habitats such as pastures, shrublands, and agroforestry mosaic areas. They are crucial pollinators, contributing to the reproduction of many native plants and maintaining biodiversity in meadows. Furthermore, they serve as food for a variety of predators such as birds, spiders, and other insects, forming part of the food chain in open ecosystems.
Experts have warned about the deterioration of these habitats, which are disappearing or being degraded due to various causes such as agricultural intensification, abandonment of traditional land use, and the massive use of plant protection products. The report highlights the need for habitat restoration, ecological connectivity, and support for agroecological practices.
The conservation of unique meadow butterfly specimens and their habitats is essential for the preservation of biodiversity in meadows. The conservation of meadow butterflies in Europe is primarily overseen by various environmental organizations and research institutions focused on biodiversity and habitat preservation, such as Butterfly Conservation Europe and national nature conservation agencies. Proposed measures to stabilize or increase populations include habitat restoration, maintaining and enhancing flower-rich meadows, reducing pesticide use, and promoting ecological agricultural practices.
The observation of meadow butterflies underscores the fragility of nature and the need for conservation actions. This indicator aligns with the objectives of the new Global Biodiversity Framework of Kunming-Montreal, adopted by the United Nations. The report serves as a fundamental tool for monitoring the conservation status of European ecosystems. The population of meadow butterflies linked to pastures in Europe has decreased significantly over the last three decades, decreasing by around 50%. The report is a stark reminder of the urgent need for action to protect these beautiful creatures and the ecosystems they inhabit.
