Lycaena mariposa

(Reakirt, 1866)

Mariposa copper

Lycaena mariposa, the mariposa , is a small in the . It occurs in western North America, where are active in mid-summer. The has a wingspan of 23–28 mm and exhibits the copper-orange coloration typical of its . feed on specific plants including Vaccinium arbuscula and Polygonum douglasii. Two are recognized: L. m. penroseae and L. m. charlottensis.

Mariposa Copper (15237441137) by Katja Schulz from Washington, D. C., USA. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.Lycaena mariposa P1060042a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.Lycaena mariposa P1060144a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Lycaena mariposa: /laɪˈsiːnə ˌmærəˈpoʊsə/

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Identification

Small with wingspan 23–28 mm. Upper surfaces show -orange coloration characteristic of Lycaena. Distinguished from other western North coppers by geographic range and period. differences in coloration and pattern may occur but require detailed examination.

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Habitat

Montane and subalpine regions of western North America. Associated with supporting larval plants Vaccinium arbuscula and Polygonum douglasii, which occur in open, often rocky or shrubby areas.

Distribution

Western Canada and the United States. Documented from Alberta and Saskatchewan in Canada. Range extends through mountainous regions of the western United States.

Seasonality

on from mid-July to August. Single brooded with restricted summer period.

Diet

feed on Vaccinium arbuscula (dwarf bilberry) and Polygonum douglasii (Douglas's knotweed). food sources not specified in available sources.

Host Associations

  • Vaccinium arbuscula - larval Dwarf bilberry; Ericaceae
  • Polygonum douglasii - larval Douglas's knotweed; Polygonaceae

Similar Taxa

  • Other Lycaena species in western North AmericaSimilar -orange coloration; distinguished by geographic range, period, and subtle differences in wing pattern and size

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Sources and further reading