Colias interior

Scudder, 1862

pink-edged sulphur

Colias interior, commonly known as the pink-edged sulphur, is a North in the . It is the state butterfly of Maine. The is , with active from June through August. Females lay on blueberry plants (Vaccinium species), and feed primarily on Vaccinium myrtilloides. The species enters as larvae and is known to hybridize with the Colias philodice, with hybrids exhibiting abnormal diapause dynamics.

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

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Colias interior: //ˈkoʊliæs ɪnˈtɪəriər//

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Distribution

North America. Recorded from Canadian provinces: Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan. United States: Vermont and Maine (designated state ).

Seasonality

One period annually, occurring between June and August.

Diet

feed on Vaccinium , specifically Vaccinium myrtilloides (blueberry). have been observed feeding on Aralia hispida and Pilosella aurantiaca.

Host Associations

  • Vaccinium myrtilloides - larval primary

Life Cycle

. emerge in a single between June and August. Females lay on blueberry plants. enter as part of the .

Behavior

Hybridizes with Colias philodice. Hybrid show abnormal dynamics: approximately 50% cease feeding at the time when pure C. interior larvae enter diapause but fail to enter diapause themselves, subsequently starving.

Human Relevance

Designated as the State of Maine.

Similar Taxa

  • Colias philodice legume-feeder that hybridizes with C. interior; differs in use (legumes vs. Vaccinium) and
  • Colias eurythemeAnother North Colias ; and associated with alfalfa and legumes rather than Vaccinium

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Sources and further reading