Speyeria hesperis ratonensis
Scott, 1981
hesperis ratonensis is a of fritillary described by Scott in 1981. It belongs to the Speyeria, commonly known as , which are characterized by their orange and black patterns and violet-feeding . The subspecies epithet "ratonensis" suggests an association with Raton, New Mexico or the Raton Mesa region. Like other Speyeria , it is expected to exhibit visual-based navigation to locate suitable , though specific studies on this subspecies are lacking.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Speyeria hesperis ratonensis: /ˌspaɪəˈriːə ˈhɛspərɪs ˌrætəˈnɛnsɪs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Distribution
The epithet "ratonensis" indicates association with the Raton, New Mexico area or Raton Mesa region in the southwestern United States. As a subspecies of hesperis, its range is presumably within or adjacent to the broader distribution of the nominate subspecies in western North America.
More Details
Taxonomic Status
GBIF indicates this is currently treated as a synonym of atlantis. The original description by Scott (1981) established it as a of Speyeria hesperis, but subsequent taxonomic revisions may have reassigned it.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- GBIF taxonomy match
- UC Davis Seminar: 'Insect Conservation in an Uncertain Future' | Bug Squad
- Meloidae Holdings | Entomology Research Museum
- Bohart Museum Butterfly Donor Chuck Hageman Leaves a Lasting Legacy | Bug Squad
- Two other orange and black butterflies: Variegated fritillary, Euptoieta claudia, and great spangled fritillary, Speyeria cybele — Bug of the Week
- Speyeria atlantis Archives - Entomology Today
- The Eyes Have It: How Butterflies Navigate to Suitable Habitat