## Species: **Luminaris Luxurians**
### General Information
* **Common Name:** Glimmerwings
* **Scientific Name:** Luminaris Luxurians
* **Other Names:** Sparklebacks, Twigmunches
* **Classification:**
+ Kingdom: Animalia
+ Phylum: Arthropoda
+ Subphylum: Hexapoda
+ Class: Insecta
+ Order: Lepidoptera
+ Suborder: Rhopalocera
+ Family: Lycaenidae
+ Genus: Luminaris
+ Species: L. Luxurians
* **Evolutionary Relatives:** The Glimmerwings are closely related to other species within the Lycaenidae family, particularly the Blues and Hairstreaks.
### Biological Characteristics
* **Population Size:** Approximately 200 individuals
* **Lifespan:** 6-8 months
* **Growth Rate:** 2-3 weeks to reach full maturity
* **Top Speed:** 30 KM/H (18.6 MPH)
* **Length:** 5 CM (1.97 INCH)
* **Height:** 2 CM (0.79 INCH)
* **Wingspan:** 10 CM (3.94 INCH)
* **Description:** The Glimmerwings have iridescent wings that reflect UV light, giving them a shimmering appearance. Their bodies are slender, with a metallic blue-green color.
### Behavior and Ecology
* **Active Period:** Diurnal
* **Diet:** Herbivorous, feeding exclusively on twigs and leaves
* **Feeding Method:** Grazing
* **Domestication Status:** Wild
* **Lifestyle:** Solitary
* **Social Structure:** Independent
* **Communication Methods:** UV-reflecting wing patterns, body language
* **Population Status:** Endangered
* **Current Population Trend:** Decreasing
* **Seasonal Behavior:** None notable
### Appearance
* **Color Variants:** Common morphs include blue-green, gold, and purple; regional variations show different shades of iridescence
* **Distinctive Features:** Iridescent wings, ability to see UV light
### Distribution & Habitat
* **Continents:** North America
* **Subcontinents:** Western United States
* **Countries:** United States
* **Geographical Realms:** Temperate forests
* **WWF Biomes:** Temperate broadleaf and mixed forests
* **Climate Zones:** Temperate
* **Preferred Habitat:** Forests, woodlands
* **Altitude Range:** 500-1500 meters
### Habits and Lifestyle
* **Group Name:** A flutter of Glimmerwings
* **Activity Range:** 1-2 kilometers
* **Predators:** Birds, spiders
* **Defensive Mechanisms:** Speed, evasive maneuvers, UV-reflecting wings
### Mating and Reproduction
* **Mating Behavior:** Polygamous, with complicated mating displays involving wing patterns and dances
* **Reproduction Season:** Spring and summer
* **Gestation/Egg Incubation Period:** 2-3 weeks
* **Litter/Clutch Size:** 50-100 eggs
* **Parental Care:** None
* **Independent Age:** Immediately after birth
* **Sexual Dimorphism:** Males have more vibrant colors, females are duller
* **Courtship Rituals:** Males perform intricate dances, displaying their UV-reflecting wings
* **Naming Convention:**
+ **Female Name:** Luna
+ **Male Name:** Lux
+ **Baby Name:** Spark
### Population and Conservation
* **Population Threats:** Habitat loss, climate change
* **Population Number:** Estimated 200 individuals in the wild
* **Conservation Efforts:** Habitat preservation, research programs
* **Ecological Role:** Pollinator, herbivore
* **Invasive Status:** Not invasive
### Human and Cultural Significance
* **Cultural/Mythological Importance:** Considered a symbol of good luck in some cultures
* **Historical Interactions:** Previously hunted for their iridescent wings
* **Uses by Humans:** None notable
* **Scientific Interest:** Researchers study their unique UV vision and iridescent wings
### Fun Facts
* The Glimmerwings can see UV light, which helps them find nectar-rich flowers
* Despite laying large amounts of eggs, only a few individuals survive to adulthood
* They are highly energetic, with a top speed of 30 KM/H
### Subspecies
* **Luminaris Luxurians Luxurians** ( nominate subspecies )
* **Luminaris Luxurians Auroralis** (found in the western United States, with a more golden color)