Miami Blues

[Mark Walker]

Paul wrote:

> 
> A question I have is whether or not the Miami Blue that
> is abundant in the Caribbean is genetically distinct (to more
> than a trivial degree) from the Miami Blue that is found in
> the Florida Keys?  If not, then maybe the Key's population
> does not warrant endangered species status protection.

I think the paper by Calhoun, Slotten, and Salvato covers this pretty well.
They do acknowledge that the ssp. bethunbakeri (considered endemic to South
Florida) may be occasionally resident in the Bahamas and Cuba, but I don't
think there is data to suggest that the Florida populations may have
originated from these locations (in fact, the opposite situation is
inferred).  It is possible, however, and potentially significant when you
consider the implications.  It's also interesting to consider how dependant
the insect apparently is to disturbed habitat.

It is a bit disappointing to read how quickly the petition for getting
endangered species status was filed after the "rediscovery" of bethunbakeri
in the Florida Keys.  I would argue that there are many factors worth
studying that might suggest an endangered species status is unwarranted.  I
am pleased that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service currently agree.  Having
now officially volunteered my energies, I will do everything that I can to
investigate these factors as thoroughly as possible.  I'm optimistic that
listing the Miami Blue will not be warranted.  Doing so prematurely would be
a gross failure.

Mark Walker
In Las Vegas
 

 
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