Marsh Fritillary: Ireland's Protected Insect Featured in New Comic Series

In an effort to raise awareness about the plight of insects, particularly the marsh fritillary butterfly, Ireland’s only protected insect species, a new comic series titled *Beo, Raja and the Butterfly Effect* has been launched. Developed by collaborative teams from several prominent Irish universities, the comic aims to engage younger audiences in discussions about biodiversity, highlighting the significance of insects in ecosystems and their contributions to the bioeconomy. The launch event took place on July 19, 2025, at Trinity College Dublin, where various experts discussed the critical role of insects in pollination and environmental health.

The marsh fritillary, known for its striking appearance, is classified as 'vulnerable' by the National Biodiversity Data Centre and is at risk of extinction due to habitat loss. Prof. Jane Stout, Vice-President for Biodiversity and Climate at Trinity College Dublin, emphasized the importance of insects, stating, "Insects are the most diverse group of animals on the planet, and yet their importance in ecosystems is vastly underappreciated." She noted that insects not only pollinate plants but also play vital roles in pest control and nutrient cycling, making them indispensable to healthy ecosystems.

The comic features the marsh fritillary engaging in conversations with other insects, including the common wasp, who laments its lack of recognition despite its crucial role in pest control. This narrative showcases the often-overlooked contributions that insects make to the environment, with the creators hoping to benefit from the 'butterfly effect,' where small changes can lead to significant and beneficial impacts on biodiversity.

*Beo, Raja and the Butterfly Effect* incorporates elements of Irish history and culture, with contributions from several universities including University College Dublin (UCD) and Maynooth University. Dr. Máire Nic an Bhaird from Maynooth University pointed out that the comic serves to inspire young people to connect with their natural heritage in the face of climate change, stating, "We must now foster a love of the land to inspire young climate stewards and support bioeconomy solutions."

In addition to its educational value, the comic is part of a broader initiative aimed at restoring biodiversity in Ireland, which has seen a decline in many species due to environmental changes and human impact. Dr. Catherine Farrell, an Assistant Professor at Trinity College Dublin, highlighted the importance of insects in business supply chains, especially in agriculture, illustrating the interconnectedness of biodiversity and economic health.

With a focus on the Irish language, the comic also aims to promote cultural continuity and ecological knowledge. Dr. Laoise Ní Chléirigh remarked on how the use of Irish in the comic strengthens the connection between language and environmental stewardship, ensuring that traditional ecological knowledge is preserved.

As the world grapples with biodiversity loss, initiatives like *Beo, Raja and the Butterfly Effect* serve as vital reminders of the interconnectedness of life and the importance of protecting even the smallest creatures. The marsh fritillary's journey from an overlooked insect to a comic book hero represents a growing recognition of the need to champion biodiversity and educate future generations about the critical roles insects play in our ecosystems. The creators of this comic hope that by raising awareness and fostering appreciation for insects, we can inspire action towards preserving our planet's biodiversity for years to come.