Kite Swallowtails
Eurytides
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Lepidoptera
- Superfamily: Papilionoidea
- Family: Papilionidae
- Subfamily: Papilioninae
- Tribe: Leptocircini
- Genus: Eurytides
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Eurytides: //juːˈɹɪtɪdiːz//
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Images
Summary
Eurytides is a genus of swallowtail butterflies, known for the zebra swallowtail (Eurytides marcellus), which is recognizable by its distinctive black-and-white-striped wings and the association with pawpaw trees. They exist mainly in North America and parts of the Neotropics, with a unique life cycle involving cannibalistic behavior among the larvae.
Physical Characteristics
The zebra swallowtail has a wingspan of 6.4 to 10.4 cm. Its triangular wings are white to greenish white with black longitudinal stripes. A pair of swordlike tails extends from the hindwings, with blue and red spots present on the hindwings.
Identification Tips
The distinctive black-and-white-striped pattern and long tails make it easy to identify. Spring forms are smaller and more white with short black tails, while summer forms are larger with broader black stripes and longer tails.
Habitat
Forests and adjacent areas with host plants, particularly near pawpaw trees (Asimina spp.).
Distribution
Primarily found in the eastern United States and southeastern Canada, with occasional strays reported in South Texas and South Florida.
Diet
Adult butterflies feed on flower nectar and minerals from damp soil, while larvae feed on the foliage of plants in the Custard Apple family (Annonaceae), particularly species in the genus Asimina.
Life Cycle
The caterpillars are cannibalistic and lay eggs singly on pawpaw leaves. They undergo metamorphosis into a chrysalis that hibernates in cold winters, and there are two seasonal forms in the adult stage.
Reproduction
Females lay pale green eggs that turn orange-brown on host plant leaves. Young caterpillars are black with lighter stripes, and they undergo two color forms as they mature.
Predators
Natural predators include spiders and ants, which can be deterred by the caterpillar's osmeterium, a yellow, foul-smelling gland that emits a defensive substance.
Ecosystem Role
The zebra swallowtail plays a role in pollination as adults visit flowers. The larvae also contribute to the food web through their interactions with host plants and predators.
Cultural Significance
It is the state butterfly of Tennessee, highlighting its cultural importance in that region.
Evolution
The genus Eurytides belongs to the family Papilionidae, sharing evolutionary traits with other swallowtail butterflies.
Similar Taxa
- Papilio
- Graphium
Misconceptions
Unlike many other swallowtail butterflies, members of this genus do not appear to be involved in mimicry complexes.
Tags
- butterfly
- Eurytides
- zebra swallowtail
- Papilionidae
- nectar feeder
- caterpillar