New butterfly species named after Icelandic artist Björk Guðmundsdóttir in North America

A new butterfly species has been named after the renowned Icelandic artist Björk Guðmundsdóttir, officially designated as Pterourus bjorkae. This species primarily inhabits deciduous forests in the eastern part of North America.

Pterourus bjorkae belongs to the swallowtail family and is a subspecies of the New England Tiger Swallowtail. It is the largest subspecies, with an average wingspan of approximately 8.5 centimeters. The butterfly is noted for its striking yellow coloration, adorned with dark patterns and orange spots. Its larvae resemble small snakes, an adaptation intended to deter predators.

Entomologist Harry Pavulaan announced the naming in a recent scientific paper published by the University of Nebraska. He indicated that the butterfly is named in honor of Björk, celebrating her multifaceted career as a singer, songwriter, producer, environmentalist, and influential artist.

The introduction of Pterourus bjorkae adds a new facet to the study of North American butterflies and highlights the connection between the natural world and cultural icons.