Statira

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Tenebrionoidea
Family: Tenebrionidae
Subfamily: Lagriinae
Tribe: Lagriini
Genus: Statira

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Statira: //staˈti.ra//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Statira gagatina (10.3897-zookeys.728.20602) Figure 5 by Bousquet Y, Thomas DB, Bouchard P, Smith AD, Aalbu RL, Johnston AM, Steiner WE Jr (2018) Catalogue of Tenebrionidae (Coleoptera) of North America. ZooKeys 728: 1-455. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.728.20602. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Summary

Aphrissa statira, known as the Statira sulphur, is a migratory butterfly species notable for its extensive distribution in tropical regions and unique adaptations for navigating during migration. Its caterpillars are known to cluster in large populations, which can affect host plants, while adults play a crucial role in pollination.

Physical Characteristics

Adults are medium-sized yellow butterflies with a wingspan of about 6.0 cm to 7.9 cm. Males exhibit pale yellow and brighter lemon yellow, while females are lighter yellow to greenish-white with black borders and solid black cell spots.

Identification Tips

Differentiation from cloudless sulphur butterflies can be challenging due to their similar yellow coloration. Males have distinct wing colors and ridges of androconial scales; females have uneven borders and additional spots on the underside.

Habitat

Found in tropical scrubs, gardens, fields, and forest edges. Males frequent open spaces near rivers, while females prefer thinner parts of the forest.

Distribution

Ranges from southern Texas and Florida through Central America to southern Brazil and northern Argentina; populations are notably abundant in the Amazon.

Diet

Caterpillars feed on host plants in the Fabaceae family (e.g., coinvine, Powder-puff) and other genera like Cassia. Adults feed on nectar, particularly from red and orange flowers.

Life Cycle

Eggs are laid singly on young leaves with two to three broods per year. Caterpillars undergo distinct forms based on feeding habits.

Reproduction

Eggs are laid on host plants, and caterpillars have multiple forms that adapt to different plants.

Ecosystem Role

They serve as important pollinators, especially for certain flowers that rely on butterfly activity for fertilization.

Evolution

The species exhibits migratory behavior that is significant for its survival and reproduction in the evolving landscapes of the Americas, showcasing adaptations to navigate using the Earth's magnetic field and other environmental cues.