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Southern duffer

Discophora lepida

A species of Discophora

This species resembles Discophora celinde, but in the male the ground colour on the upperside is dark velvety brown without any blue reflections; the forewing is crossed pre-apically by three obliquely-placed, comparatively large, pale-blue spots with an ill-defined series of three or four much smaller subterminal spots; in the female the markings, though similar to those in the female of D. celinde, are on the upperside of the forewing all pale blue, not yellow, and more numerous, larger, and better defined on the upperside of the hindwing. Underside. Male similar to that in male of D. celinde, but a more or less prominent diffuse subterminal band irrorated with lilac scales crosses both forewing and hindwing. Female similar to the female of D. celinde, but much paler. Wingspan 80–104 mm.

General Info About Southern duffer
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Attributes of Southern duffer
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
Gray
White
Purple
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Southern duffer
In 1957, Mark Alexander Wynter-Blyth described the species as rare.
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Predators of Southern duffer Larvae
Birds, rodents, ants, wasps, spiders, mantises
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Predators of Adult Southern duffer
Birds, bats, spiders, mantises, lizards, frogs
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Interesting Facts About Southern duffer
The southern duffer has wings that can undergo slight changes in hue when viewed from different angles, a unique trait called iridescence.
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Scientific Classification of Southern duffer
Tips for Finding Southern duffer
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Youth Habitat of Southern duffer
Tropical Rainforests
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Habitat Preferences of Southern duffer Through Different Life Stages
During the egg stage, southern duffer is commonly found on the underside of host plant leaves, where they are laid in clusters to reduce predation. As caterpillars, southern duffer typically dwell on the leaves and stems of the same host plants, voraciously consuming vegetation to fuel their growth. Searching for these caterpillars requires inspecting the host plants they are known to feed on. Pupae of southern duffer are usually hidden in concealed areas like the underside of leaves or in crevices near the host plant, providing camouflage and protection from predators. Adults, having undergone metamorphosis, are more mobile and widespread, often found in nearby flowering fields or forests where they feed on nectar and mate, so searching for them entails scouting for flowering plants in these habitats.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Southern duffer
For observing adult southern duffer, the best time is usually mid-morning to early afternoon when they are the most active. This is when temperatures are warm and suitable for southern duffer to fly and feed. For egg or larval stages, any time of day might be suitable as they are not as active and temperature-dependent as adults.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Southern duffer
Warm, sunny, and windless or low-wind conditions are generally ideal for finding adult southern duffer since they are ectothermic and rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. Adult southern duffer may be less active during cold, rainy, or overly windy weather. Larvae and pupae are less affected by weather changes but prefer humid conditions to prevent desiccation.
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How and Where Can You Find Southern duffer at Different Life Stages
Egg Southern duffer eggs are often deposited on the underside of host plant leaves in the family Nymphalidae. To locate eggs, check the host plants known for southern duffer and inspect the underside of leaves thoroughly.
Larva Southern duffer larvae, also known as caterpillars, can be found on or near their host plants. Look for signs of feeding such as chewed leaves, frass (caterpillar droppings), and the caterpillars themselves on the plants.
Pupal Southern duffer pupae may be attached to plant stems or hidden in leaf litter. When searching, look for camouflaged chrysalises that often resemble the surrounding environment in color and texture.
Adult Adult southern duffer can be found feeding on nectar from flowers, basking in the sun, or flying in their habitat. To find adult southern duffer, visit areas with flowering plants during warm, sunny days and look for them on or near the flowers. A quiet and observant approach is recommended to avoid startling them.
Are Southern duffer harmful?
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Are Southern duffer 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.
Beneficial Effects of Southern duffer
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color
Southern duffer is attracted to flowers primarily by their vivid colors. While feeding on nectar, southern duffer inadvertently picks up pollen on its body which is then transferred to other flowers, aiding in cross-pollination. This process is incidental, as southern duffer's primary focus is nectar consumption.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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