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Small cupid

Small cupid

Chilades parrhasius

A species of Jewel blues

Displaying a dazzling array of iridescent blue scales on its dorsal wings, small cupid is a striking example of lepidopteran beauty and complexity. In its larval stage, small cupid subsists primarily on the leaves of Fabaceae plants, showcasing the intimate ecological relationships that shape its life cycle. As an adult, small cupid can often be seen flitting from flower to flower, its diminutive size belied by the remarkable distances it can traverse.

General Info About Small cupid
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Attributes of Small cupid
Colors
Brown
Black
White
Orange
Habitat
acacia shrub
Adult Food Sources
Asteraceae flowers, fabaceae flowers, lamiaceae flowers, apocynaceae flowers, rubiaceae flowers
Larva Food Source
Fabaceae plant leaves, trifolium species (clovers), medicago species (alfalfa), melilotus species (sweet clover), lotus species (bird's-foot trefoils)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Small cupid 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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Life Cycle of Small cupid
Egg The small cupid begins life as a tiny egg, round or oval in shape, with distinctive surface patterns. Its color varies, often designed to blend with the surrounding environment for protection.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva (caterpillar) of small cupid emerges, characterized by a voracious appetite, growth through molting, and a body comprising a series of segments with prolegs.
Pupal The caterpillar of small cupid transitions to a pupa, withdrawing into a cocoon or chrysalis. During this stage, remarkable transformation occurs, reorganizing into the adult form in a static state.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult small cupid’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 Small cupid
2.5 - 3.5 cm
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Predators of Small cupid Larvae
Birds, frogs, spiders, ants, wasps, mantises
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Predators of Adult Small cupid
Birds, spiders, praying mantises, lizards
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Interesting Facts About Small cupid
While resting, small cupid cleverly uses its wings to mimic the appearance of leaves, eluding predators with this natural camouflage.
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Scientific Classification of Small cupid
Tips for Finding Small cupid
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How Can You Attract Small cupid
Adult small cupid are typically attracted to nectar plants, while caterpillars may be found on certain host plants specific to their species.
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Habitat Preferences of Small cupid Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of small cupid are typically found on the foliage of host plants, often on the undersides of leaves to avoid predators and harsh environmental conditions. Caterpillars, once hatched, are also found on host plants, consuming leaves and remaining camouflaged among the greenery. Pupae are frequently discovered attached to twigs or leaves, possibly in more sheltered areas to enhance survival during metamorphosis. Adults, with their ability to fly, are commonly seen visiting flowers for nectar or basking on vegetation in sunny, open habitats. Searching for small cupid's developmental stages entails surveying host plants and nearby flowers, while paying careful attention to the microhabitats that each stage may selectively occupy.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Small cupid
The best time to find adult small cupid is on sunny days when they are most active, typically in the late morning or early afternoon. Caterpillar stages will depend on their natural life cycle, often tied to host plant availability and season.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Small cupid
Warm, dry, and sunny weather conditions are generally most suitable for finding adult small cupid as they are active for feeding and mating. Overcast but calm weather may also be a good time to find them resting on vegetation.
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How and Where Can You Find Small cupid at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of small cupid are laid on host plants. To find them, inspect the leaves of known host plants for small, often spherical objects that may vary in color.
Larva Small cupid larvae can be found on or near their host plants. Search the leaves and stems for caterpillars, looking for signs of feeding such as chewed leaves or frass (caterpillar droppings).
Pupal Pupae of small cupid might be attached to host plants or concealed in leaf litter. Look for chrysalises attached to stems or leaves, or gently sift through nearby litter on the ground.
Adult Small cupid adults are often found feeding on flowers, basking in the sun, or seeking mates. To find them, visit gardens or natural areas with flowering plants and watch for their distinctive flight patterns and colors.
Are Small cupid harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Small cupid
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Small cupid has a penchant for sipping nectar while inadvertently picking up pollen which they then transfer from flower to flower. This activity assists in plant reproduction and this pollinator plays a vital role in maintaining biodiversity in their ecosystem.
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