Butterflies
Butterflies are relatively specialized, and their diversity reflects the diversity of potential host plants in the environment. Kwiaht works with state biologists and private landowners to protect and monitor one of the two known populations of the threatened Island Marble butterfly (Euchloe ausonides insulanus). Kwiaht is also using microsatellite genetics to explore the evolutionary relationship of the Island Marble to its presumed parent population in Eastern Washington. Kwiaht also studies the Propertius duskywing (Erynnis propertius) a rare oak-dependent butterfly in the islands.
Island Marble adult, San Juan Island
Propertius, Dusky Wing