Source link : https://europ.info/2025/06/23/butterflies-released-in-finland-were-carriers-of-parasitic-wasps-and-they-had-even-more-wasps-inside-them/
In a startling revelation, butterflies released in Finland have been found to harbor parasitic wasps-sometimes in alarming numbers. The Guardian reports that these seemingly harmless insects, intended for ecological or ceremonial purposes, may be unwitting carriers of multiple wasp parasites. This discovery raises concerns about the potential impact on local ecosystems and highlights the complexities of insect trade and release practices.
Butterflies Released in Finland Found to Carry Parasitic Wasps
Recent investigations into butterfly releases across Finland have unveiled a troubling discovery: several of the butterflies transported for environmental and educational purposes were unwitting hosts to parasitic wasps. These tiny invaders, often invisible to the naked eye, were found living inside the butterfly larvae, using the host as a breeding ground before emerging as parasites. This finding raises concerns about the unintended ecological impact such releases might have, especially in sensitive or protected habitats where the balance of local species is already vulnerable.
The study highlights several key points about the parasitic wasps found:
- Species Variety: Multiple species of parasitic wasps were identified, some previously undocumented in the region.
- Infestation Rates: Up to 35% of released butterflies carried wasp larvae internally.
- Potential Risks: The spread of these wasps could threaten native insect populations by disrupting existing predator-prey…
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Author : Victoria Jones
Publish date : 2025-06-23 20:54:00
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