Phyciodes pallida

Edwards, 1864

Pale Crescent, Pallid Crescentspot

Phyciodes pallida is a in the Nymphalidae, commonly known as the pale crescent or pallid crescentspot. It occurs in western North America. have a wingspan of 33–44 mm. The species has at least two recognized : P. p. pallida and P. p. barnesi.

Phyciodes pallida by (c) Nick Block, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Nick Block. Used under a CC-BY license.NW47-9 Phyciodes pallida pallida (3429932354) by NSG group from Lund, Sweden. Used under a CC0 license.NW47-11 Phyciodes pallida pallida (3429118965) by NSG group from Lund, Sweden. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Phyciodes pallida: //faɪˈsaɪ.oʊdiːz ˈpæl.ɪdə//

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Identification

Distinguished from the similar Phyciodes mylitta (Mylitta crescent) by paler overall coloration and less pronounced dark wing markings. The reduced intensity of crescent spots on the wing margins separates it from other Phyciodes in sympatry.

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Appearance

Wingspan 33–44 mm. Overall coloration pale relative to , with reduced dark markings on wings. Crescent-shaped spots on wing margins, characteristic of the Phyciodes, present but less pronounced than in related .

Distribution

Western North America. Specific range details beyond this broad region are not well-documented in available sources.

Seasonality

fly in June in Canada. period in other parts of the range is not specified.

Diet

Larvae feed on Cirsium (thistles). feeding habits are not documented.

Host Associations

  • Cirsium - larval food plant-level identification only; specific not stated

Life Cycle

Complete with , larva, pupa, and stages. Larval stage associated with Cirsium plants. Detailed including number of per year and stage is not documented.

Ecological Role

Larvae function as herbivores on native thistles. may contribute to pollination, though this has not been quantified. Specific roles beyond larval herbivory are not documented.

Similar Taxa

  • Phyciodes mylittaSimilar size and wing pattern, but P. pallida is distinguished by paler coloration and less pronounced dark markings

More Details

Subspecies

Two recognized: P. p. pallida (nominate) and P. p. barnesi Skinner, 1897. Distinguishing characters between subspecies are not specified in available sources.

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Sources and further reading