Pyrgus centaureae freija
(Warren, 1924)
Freija's Grizzled Skipper
Pyrgus centaureae freija is a of grizzled in the . 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 . 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; switch foodplants between years
Life Cycle
Has a two-year development cycle. 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 where P. c. freija is treated as a synonym
More Details
Taxonomic note
This has a complex taxonomic . 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 , 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.