Here, we present protocols for 1) the laboratory captive propagation of the federally endangered Miami blue butterfly (Cyclargus thomasi bethunebakeri), and 2) assessing basic life history information such as immature development time and number of larval stadia. Both methods can be adapted for use with other ex situ conservation programs.
Daniels, J. C., Hill, G. M., Rossetti, K. A., Sanchez, S. J., Hornfeldt, J. A. At-Risk Butterfly Captive Propagation Programs to Enhance Life History Knowledge and Effective Ex Situ Conservation Techniques. J. Vis. Exp. (156), e60591, doi:10.3791/60591 (2020).