The ecology and conservation management of the ptunarra brown butterfly Oreixenica ptunarra (Lepidoptera; Nymphalidae; Satyrinae) in Tasmania, Australia

Abstract

The ecology and conservation status of the rare Tasmanian endemic butterfly Oreixenica ptunarra Couchman was investigated over a three-year period. One hundred and fifry colonies of the butterfly have been located in areas of Poa-dominated native grassland across central Tasmania. Most colonies are small and all are under pressure from continuing stock grazing. Without active intervention the species will continue to decline. A recovery plan for the butterfly has been written, implementation of which will commence in March 1993.