Hodges#4482
Phyciodes batesii
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Lepidoptera
- Superfamily: Papilionoidea
- Family: Nymphalidae
- Subfamily: Nymphalinae
- Tribe: Melitaeini
- Genus: Phyciodes
- Species: batesii
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Phyciodes batesii: //faɪˈsaɪ.oʊdiːz ˈbeɪtsi.aɪ//
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Images
Summary
Phyciodes batesii, known as the tawny crescent, is a butterfly of the family Nymphalidae found in North America. It is characterized by its distinct coloration and life cycle, primarily flying in June and July with specific larval host plants.
Physical Characteristics
The upperside is dark brown with orange, featuring a pale postmedian band with submarginal bands. Males and females both have black and white antenna knobs. The wingspan ranges from 25 to 38 mm. Under side of forewings has bold black markings and predominantly orange apical area. Males have nearly even tawny yellow-orange hindwings with a marginal dark patch, while females are paler with more pronounced dark line patterns.
Identification Tips
Distinguished by nearly black antennal clubs lacking orange color; under side of forewings with two bold broad black markings. The apical area of under forewings is usually predominantly orange with little dark contrast. Confused with other Phyciodes species like P. cocyta and P. tharos, which show distinct differences in wing color patterns and antennal coloration.
Habitat
Occurs in northern Great Plains, mostly in areas of broken or rocky terrain, primarily associated with wooded areas and prairie openings.
Distribution
Southern Canada and northern U.S. regions from Quebec, New England, Pennsylvania to northeast British Columbia, Alberta, Montana, and northeast Wyoming. Scattered colonies associated with northern Great Plains.
Diet
Larval hosts include Symphyotrichum undulatum. Adult butterflies primarily feed on flower nectar.
Life Cycle
Adults fly once a year, typically from May to July. There can be a partial second brood in some areas like Michigan. Females lay eggs in groups on host plants, with fourth-instar caterpillars hibernating.
Reproduction
Females lay eggs in groups on the host plant after mating.
Ecosystem Role
Pollinators of flowers due to their nectar feeding habits.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Females are more likely to be confused with other similar species due to their variable coloration and patterns.
Tags
- butterfly
- Nymphalidae
- Phyciodes
- North America
- tawny crescent