Boloria natazhati

(Gibson, 1920)

Beringian fritillary, cryptic fritillary, Pleistocene fritillary

Boloria natazhati is a small fritillary to northwestern North America. It is found in alpine and subalpine from northwestern Canada to northern British Columbia. The has a narrow period in mid-summer and is associated with rocky, open terrain. Its reference its Beringian distribution and cryptic appearance.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Boloria natazhati: //bəˈloʊriə ˌnætəˈʒæti//

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

Identification

Distinguished from other Boloria by combination of small size, restricted northern distribution, and preference for rocky alpine terrain. Most similar to Boloria chariclea, but range and habitat differ. Identification may require examination of genitalia or molecular markers due to cryptic .

Appearance

Wingspan 32–44 mm. Upperwing pattern typical of Boloria fritillaries with orange-brown ground color and black spotting. Underside pattern provides camouflage against rocky substrates. Size smaller than many .

Habitat

Screes, slopes, rocky ridges, and cobble beaches in alpine and subalpine zones. Associated with open, rocky terrain with sparse vegetation.

Distribution

Northwestern Canada, from Yukon and Northwest Territories south to northern British Columbia. Beringian distribution reflecting Pleistocene refugial history.

Seasonality

fly from mid-June to July. Single-brooded with narrow window.

Diet

Larvae possibly feed on Dryas integrifolia. feed on flower nectar from Phlox sibirica and Saxifraga .

Host Associations

Dryas integrifolia - probable larval larval feeding inferred from association; not confirmed
Phlox sibirica - nectar sourceobserved nectar plant
Saxifraga - nectar sourceobserved nectar plant

Life Cycle

Complete with , larva, pupa, and stages. Single per year. stage not documented.

Ecological Role

function as of alpine wildflowers. Larvae are herbivores, potentially contributing to nutrient cycling in alpine .

Similar Taxa

Boloria charicleaSimilar size and appearance, but B. chariclea has broader distribution and different preferences
Boloria seleneLarger size, more southern distribution in moist grasslands rather than rocky alpine terrain

More Details

Conservation status

Not formally assessed; limited range and alpine specialization may increase vulnerability to climate change

Taxonomic history

Originally described as Brenthis natazhati; transferred to Clossiana by some authors; currently placed in Boloria