Karner Blue vs Balkan Goldenring
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Karner Blue | Balkan Goldenring |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Plebejus samuelis | Cordulegaster heros |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Odonata |
| Family | Lycaenidae | Cordulegastridae |
| Size | 22-28 mm wingspan | 85-97 mm |
| Habitat | Deserts & Drylands | Forests |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Great Lakes and northeastern United States | Europe |
| Conservation | Endangered | Near Threatened |
Karner Blue
A tiny bright blue butterfly with orange crescents on the hindwing underside that depends entirely on wild lupine. It is a federally endangered species in the United States.
Did You Know?
It was first described by novelist Vladimir Nabokov, who was also a serious lepidopterist at Harvard's Museum of Comparative Zoology.
Balkan Goldenring
The largest dragonfly in Europe, reaching nearly 100 mm in length. It is restricted to clean forest streams in southeastern Europe.
Did You Know?
At nearly 100 mm, it holds the record as the largest dragonfly species in Europe.