Colias

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Papilionoidea
Family: Pieridae
Subfamily: Coliadinae
Genus: Colias

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Colias: /ˈkɔ.li.as/

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

Images

Colias hyale by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Colias pelidne by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Colias myrmidone by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Colias eurytheme by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Colias is a genus of migratory butterflies in the family Pieridae, known for their seasonal movements and diverse color forms. Their caterpillars primarily feed on leguminous plants, positioning them as both beneficial and occasionally problematic in agricultural settings.

Physical Characteristics

Colias are usually some shade of yellow, orange, or white with black borders (usually solid in males, often with pale spots in females). They always perch with wings closed, but upperside pattern may be seen faintly through the wing or glimpsed in flight.

Identification Tips

Most species have distinct color variations, and males often display brilliant ultraviolet reflection in their wings, unlike females.

Habitat

Colias species inhabit a variety of environments, often moving to areas with abundant larval food plants and nectar sources.

Distribution

Colias occurs throughout the Holarctic region, including the Arctic, and is also found in South America, Africa, China, and India.

Diet

The caterpillars feed primarily on Fabaceae, such as vetches (Vicia), which helps keep some weeds at bay; however, they can be pests on crops like alfalfa.

Life Cycle

Colias species exhibit migratory behavior, moving according to seasonal changes to take advantage of food sources.

Reproduction

Details about reproduction are not specifically stated, but typical lepidopteran reproduction involves mating and laying eggs on or near the host plants for larvae.

Predators

Colias do not sequester toxins, making them a well-loved prey item for insectivores. Their ability to be nimble helps them evade predation.

Ecosystem Role

They play a role in controlling weed populations by feeding on plants that may otherwise become invasive and serve as food for predators.

Economic Impact

Some species can become nuisance pests on crops like alfalfa, impacting agriculture.

Evolution

The genus exhibits significant hybridization and cryptic speciation, with molecular phylogenetics indicating evolutionary distance within what is traditionally seen as single species.

Similar Taxa

Zerene