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Scotch argus

Scotch argus

Erebia aethiops

A species of Alpines

Adorned with eyespots that mimic the gaze of predators, scotch argus thrives in grassy habitats where its cryptic coloration blends seamlessly with the surroundings. This adept flyer possesses a striking visual defense mechanism through its wing patterns, displaying an evolutionary marvel that deters potential threats. In its larval stage, scotch argus exhibits herbivorous tendencies, feeding on a range of Poaceae, while adults favor nectaring on a variety of flowering plants.

General Info About Scotch argus
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Attributes of Scotch argus
Colors
Brown
Black
White
Orange
Habitat
sunny woodland fringe; bushy limestone grassland and woodland gap system on low and medium high mountain; clearing of floodplain forest
Adult Food Sources
Thistles, knapweeds, asters, daisies, buddleia (butterfly bush)
Larva Food Source
Various grasses, poa annua (annual bluegrass), festuca ovina (sheep's fescue), brachypodium sylvaticum (false brome), agrostis capillaris (common bent)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Scotch argus is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Scotch argus is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Scotch argus 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 Scotch argus
It is widespread in the Palaearctic ecozon.
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Distribution Area of Scotch argus
Palearctic realm
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Life Cycle of Scotch argus
Egg The egg of the scotch argus is typically rounded, with a hard exterior to protect the developing larva inside. It's the initial phase where the future larva develops, usually attached to a host plant.
Larva As a larva, the scotch argus has a segmented body with no wings, and its primary function is feeding and growth. It molts several times, increasing in size with each molt.
Pupal During the pupal stage, the scotch argus is encased in a cocoon or chrysalis. It is a transition phase where the creature undergoes significant transformation, reorganizing into an adult form.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult scotch argus’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 Scotch argus
4 - 4.5 cm
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Predators of Scotch argus Larvae
Birds, rodents, arachnids, insectivorous insects
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Predators of Adult Scotch argus
Birds, rodents, spiders, insectivorous insects
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Interesting Facts About Scotch argus
Scotch argus's larvae create shelter by curling leaves with silk, a unique adaptation to protect against predators and harsh weather.
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Scientific Classification of Scotch argus
Tips for Finding Scotch argus
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Youth Habitat of Scotch argus
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Mountains and Alpine Regions
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Adult Habitat of Scotch argus
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Mountains and Alpine Regions
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How Can You Attract Scotch argus
Given that scotch argus feed on specific host plants during their larval stage, a common attractant could be planting or locating these types of vegetation.
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Habitat Preferences of Scotch argus Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of scotch argus are typically deposited on grasses, where they hatch into larvae that feed on various grass species. The caterpillar stage can often be found in grassy environments, such as meadows or pastures. In searching for these larvae, one would focus on areas with ample grass growth, checking on and around host plant species. The adult scotch argus, with its characteristic dark wings, frequents flower-rich grasslands where nectar sources are abundant. To locate the adults, one must explore sunny, open habitats during warmer months, particularly when wildflowers are in bloom. Such searches should include both observation and gentle examination of flowers and grasses where the adults may rest or feed.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Scotch argus
The suitable time to find adult scotch argus is typically during daytime when they are most active, especially on sunny days as they rely on external heat sources for energy.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Scotch argus
Warm, dry, and sunny conditions are ideal for finding adult scotch argus. For finding eggs or caterpillars, mild and humid weather might be more appropriate as it is conducive for their development.
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How and Where Can You Find Scotch argus at Different Life Stages
Egg Locate the eggs of scotch argus by identifying the host plants and examining the undersides of leaves or stems where the eggs are usually laid.
Larva Search for scotch argus caterpillars by looking for signs of feeding on host plants, such as chewed leaves, and inspecting the plant more closely for the presence of caterpillars.
Pupal Scotch argus pupae can be found attached to sheltered locations like the undersides of leaves or branches, or within the litter on the ground near host plants.
Adult To find adult scotch argus, walk through habitats where the butterfly is known to occur, such as meadows or forest clearings, and look for their distinctive flight patterns or basking behaviour on warm surfaces.
Are Scotch argus harmful?
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Usually, the scotch argus won't threaten or hurt humans. But remember that even a worm will turn. Remember to still be cautious.

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Are Scotch argus 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 Scotch argus
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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
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Scotch argus flutters from blossom to blossom, its proboscis unfurled to sip nectar. While feeding, pollen grains stick to its body, making it an effective pollinator as it inadvertently transfers pollen to the next flower. Amid this quest for sustenance, scotch argus plays a vital role in plant reproduction.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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