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Gulf fritillary

Gulf fritillary

Agraulis vanillae

A species of Gulf fritillary, Also known as Gulf fritillary butterfly, Longwing butterfly

The gulf fritillary (Agraulis vanillae) is a bright orange butterfly with small black spots, but the larvae are bright orange with multiple black spines. The larvae are big fans of passionflower, they feed on the leaves. These beautiful butterflies are most commonly seen in fields, pastures, yards, and parks.

General Info About Gulf fritillary
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Attributes of Gulf fritillary
Colors
Black
Yellow
White
Orange
Habitat
roadside; disturbed site; field; open woodland; pasture; yard; park
Adult Food Sources
Lantana, shepherd\u2019s needle, cordia, composites, various asters
Larva Food Source
Passiflora incarnata (maypop), passiflora lutea (yellow passionflower), passiflora suberosa (corky-stemmed passion vine), passiflora affinis (texas passionflower), passiflora foetida (scarlet fruit passion flower)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Gulf fritillary feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Gulf fritillary
The species ranges from north South America to Central America, Mexico, the west Indies to the southern United States. Wander north into Central America; Northward is rare.
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Distribution Area of Gulf fritillary
America, Mexico
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Appearance of Gulf fritillary
In its adult form, the gulf fritillary is a medium-sized butterfly that has extended forewings and a wingspan range of 7 - 10 cm. This butterfly exhibits sexual dimorphism as females are typically distinctively larger in size than males. The underside of the wings is brown and speckled with silvery white dots. In contrast, the top surface layer of the wings is deep orange in color with black streaks running across. In addition to the size difference between the two sexes, females are usually darker in color and are more marked with black streaks as compared to the males.Eggs are small and spherically shaped.In appearance, the larvae are dark orange.
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How to Identify Gulf fritillary?

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Life Cycle of Gulf fritillary
Egg The egg stage begins when the female gulf fritillary deposits eggs on a host plant. The eggs are small, ovular and may have fine structures on the surface. This stage is solely a developmental phase without locomotion or feeding.
Larva The larva of gulf fritillary hatches with a primary focus on feeding. A cylindrical, soft-bodied caterpillar with distinctive color patterns grows significantly, molting several times before reaching the next stage.
Pupal During this stage, gulf fritillary undergoes a transformative phase within a chrysalis. It does not feed or move while its shape and internal structure are entirely reorganized, preparing for adulthood.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult gulf fritillary's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Adult Size of Gulf fritillary
Wingspan 7 - 8 cm
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Predators of Gulf fritillary Larvae
Ants, wasps, spiders, birds
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Predators of Adult Gulf fritillary
Birds, spiders, mammals, reptiles
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Scientific Classification of Gulf fritillary
Tips for Finding Gulf fritillary
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How Can You Attract Gulf fritillary
Since gulf fritillary is a type of butterfly, people do not typically use traps or bait to find them as they might with other animals. Instead, one could provide a habitat rich in nectar-producing flowers and host plants for caterpillars.
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Habitat Preferences of Gulf fritillary Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of gulf fritillary are typically deposited on various parts of host plants, particularly the leaves. Upon hatching, the caterpillars remain on these plants, consuming the leaves and stems, which offer both nourishment and habitat. As gulf fritillary progresses to the chrysalis stage, it may seek shelter in crevices or hang from sturdy substrates in more concealed areas to undergo metamorphosis. Adult gulf fritillary primarily habituate flowering gardens or meadows, where they can be seen feeding on nectar. To seek out their different developmental stages, one would inspect specific host plants for eggs and larvae, and nearby secure spots for chrysalises, while adults might be spotted hovering around nectar sources.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Gulf fritillary
The suitable time to find gulf fritillary is typically during daylight hours when they are most active, especially on warm and sunny days, as butterflies are generally diurnal and depend on sunlight to regulate their body temperature.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Gulf fritillary
Warm, sunny, and calm weather is most suitable for finding gulf fritillary, as butterflies are less active during cold, windy, or rainy conditions.
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How and Where Can You Find Gulf fritillary at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of gulf fritillary are often laid on host plants. To find them, identify the host plant species and inspect the undersides of leaves for small clusters of eggs.
Larva Gulf fritillary caterpillars can be found on or near their host plants. Look for chewed leaves and frass (caterpillar droppings) as indicators of their presence.
Pupal Gulf fritillary chrysalises can be somewhat difficult to find due to their camouflaged appearance. Search on the stems of plants or hidden among foliage, particularly on the host plant or nearby structures.
Adult Gulf fritillary butterflies can be found in open areas such as meadows and gardens, where they visit various flowers to feed on nectar. Quietly walking through these areas and watching for their distinct flight pattern is an ideal way to locate them.
Are Gulf fritillary harmful?
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The gulf fritillary can cause toxic reactions with a wide range of severity. However, the toxins are typically targeted at their prey and predators. They are usually not fatal to humans.

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Are Gulf fritillary harmful to humans?

Some larvae of tortoiseshell butterflies feed on milkweed, which is a poisonous plant containing cardiac glycosides, so the larvae are poisonous. Although poisonous, these butterflies will not directly affect humans if not swallowed. Touching the larvae of certain tortoiseshell butterflies may cause a rash.
Harmful Effects of Gulf fritillary
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Agricultural Pests

When present in large numbers, larvae of gulf fritillary can defoliate Passiflora species, impacting plant health and crop yield. While individual larvae cause mild damage, severe defoliation may occur with infestations, potentially resulting in significant agricultural loss and affecting the availability of these crops for human consumption.

More Effects of Gulf fritillary

Beneficial Effects of Gulf fritillary
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Prefer Plant Type
Passiflora
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Gulf fritillary is attracted to the vibrant colors and complex shapes of flowers, particularly favoring Passiflora species. As they feed on nectar, their movements cause them to inadvertently pick up and disperse pollen, aiding in the cross-pollination of plants.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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