Brush-footed butterflies

Definition

Common name for butterflies of the family Nymphalidae, the largest butterfly family, characterized by reduced, non-functional forelegs that are held curled against the body and often bear brush-like tufts of setae. Adults appear four-legged when standing, with only the mid- and hindlegs used for walking and perching. The family includes diverse subfamilies such as the milkweed butterflies (Danainae), brush-footed butterflies proper (Nymphalinae), and satyrs and morphos (Satyrinae).

Etymology

From the brush-like setae on the reduced forelegs and the apparent four-legged stance of adults

Example

The monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus), a well-known brush-footed butterfly, uses its reduced forelegs only for chemical sensing and tasting host plants, not for walking.

Synonyms

• four-footed butterflies
• nymphalids

Related Terms

• Nymphalidae
• Papilionoidea
• Lepidoptera
• reduced forelegs
• brush-like setae
• Milkweed butterflies
• fritillaries
• admirals
• tortoiseshells

Usage Notes

A vernacular name for family Nymphalidae; not all species have conspicuously brush-like forelegs, but all share the reduced foreleg morphology. Distinguished from other papilionoid families (Papilionidae, Pieridae, Lycaenidae, Riodinidae) by this trait. The term is sometimes applied specifically to subfamily Nymphalinae, but broader usage for the entire family is standard in field guides and popular literature.