Pyrgus centaureae freija
(Warren, 1924)
Freija's Grizzled Skipper
Pyrgus centaureae freija is a of grizzled in the Hesperiidae. It was originally described as a full by Warren in 1924, but is currently treated as a subspecies of Pyrgus centaureae. The is considered a synonym of Pyrgus wyandot in some classifications. It is a member of the diverse Pyrgus , commonly known as checkered-skippers or grizzled skippers.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pyrgus centaureae freija: //ˈpɪrɡəs sɛnˈtɔːrɪiː ˈfreɪ.jə//
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Host Associations
- Betula nana - larval foodplantDwarf birch used in first year of larval development
- Rubus chamaemorus - larval foodplantCloudberry used in second year of larval development; larvae switch foodplants between years
Life Cycle
Has a two-year development cycle. Larvae switch larval foodplants during their second year of development, from Betula nana (Dwarf birch) to Rubus chamaemorus (Cloudberry).
Similar Taxa
- Pyrgus centaureaeParent ; freija was originally described as a distinct species but later treated as a
- Pyrgus wyandotCurrently accepted name in some classifications where P. c. freija is treated as a synonym
More Details
Taxonomic note
This has a complex taxonomic history. Originally described as Pyrgus freija by Warren (1924), it was later treated as a of Pyrgus centaureae. GBIF currently lists it as a synonym of Pyrgus wyandot. The subspecific status and validity remain subject to ongoing taxonomic revision.
Developmental biology
Among European butterflies, P. centaureae (including freija) is one of only two known to switch larval foodplants during their second year of development. This two-year with switching is a notable biological feature distinguishing it from most other Pyrgus species.