Hodges#4562.1

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Asterocampa clyton: /ˌæstɛroʊˈkæmpə ˈklaɪtɒn/

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

Images

Summary

Asterocampa clyton, commonly known as the tawny emperor, is a species of brush-footed butterfly primarily found in deciduous woodlands across North America. It is identified by its distinctive wing coloration and feeding habits.

Physical Characteristics

Upperside mostly dark brown; forewing orange-brown with pale orange-yellow spots; underside mainly gray brown with some black and pale yellowish markings; wingspan measures 2 to 2.6 inches (51 to 66 mm).

Identification Tips

Distinguished from Hackberry Emperor by the absence of white spots near the tip of its forewing and having a black eyespot lower along the edge of the forewing.

Habitat

Deciduous woodlands, especially riparian woodlands, gardens, and near water or muddy places.

Distribution

Native to North America, especially the eastern half from Canada to northern Mexico; rare in Arizona and New Mexico.

Diet

Adults feed on carrion, plant sap, and dung; larvae feed exclusively on hackberry trees.

Life Cycle

Caterpillars overwinter in groups; females lay clusters of green eggs; larvae are green with yellow, white, or greenish stripes.

Reproduction

Female lays clusters of green eggs on host plants.

Ecosystem Role

Pollinator; helps in the breakdown of organic matter by feeding on dung and carrion.

Collecting Methods

• Netting during flight

Preservation Methods

• Drying specimens
• Setting in a display box

Similar Taxa

• Hackberry Emperor (Asterocampa clyton)

Misconceptions

Often confused with Hackberry Emperor due to similar appearance, but can be distinguished by specific markings.

Tags

• butterfly
• Nymphalidae
• North America
• Asterocampa clyton