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Grass jewel

Grass jewel

Freyeria trochylus

A species of Freyeria, Also known as Jewel blue

Adorned with an overlay of metallic scales that glint in the sunlight, grass jewel boasts one of the most delicate wing structure among its peers, as its fluttering can resemble the movements of hummingbirds. Caterpillars of this species exhibit an intriguing mutualistic relationship with ants, where they secrete a sugary substance to attract these guardians, who in turn protect them from potential predators.

General Info About Grass jewel
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Attributes of Grass jewel
Colors
Brown
Black
Gray
White
Orange
Habitat
Hot dry rocky grassy ground with sparse grass; disturbed ground; edge of cultivation; flower; nearer water; ditch; roadside drain
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar, honeydew
Larva Food Source
Leaves of specific host plants, plant matter from specific fabaceae species
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Grass jewel is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Grass jewel 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 Grass jewel feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
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Species Status of Grass jewel
Common
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Predators of Grass jewel Larvae
Ants, wasps, birds, spiders
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Predators of Adult Grass jewel
Birds, spiders, mantises, rodents
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Interesting Facts About Grass jewel
Grass jewel has the ability to produce sound, a rare trait among its kin, using a specialized organ not related to vocalization.
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Scientific Classification of Grass jewel
Tips for Finding Grass jewel
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Youth Habitat of Grass jewel
Grasslands and Prairies, Forests and Woodlands, Savannas, Tropical Rainforests
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Habitat Preferences of Grass jewel Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of grass jewel are typically laid on the flowers or buds of the host plant, often found in sunny meadows or forest edges. As caterpillars, they hide and feed on the vegetative parts of the host plant, which are usually specific types of Fabaceae located in similar habitats as the eggs. Searching for them requires a careful examination of the host plants, looking under leaves and along stems. Pupae are generally found in sheltered locations nearby, such as under loose bark or amongst leaf litter. Adult grass jewel prefer open spaces like meadows, gardens, and fields where they can be seen fluttering from flower to flower during daylight, particularly where nectar-rich plants are abundant.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Grass jewel
The best time to find grass jewel would be during its active periods which, for most Lepidoptera, include warm days. Early mornings or late afternoons when temperatures are moderate might be ideal as well.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Grass jewel
Dry and sunny weather with little to no wind is typically the most suitable for observation of butterflies since these conditions are conducive for their flight and nectar-feeding activities.
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How and Where Can You Find Grass jewel at Different Life Stages
Egg Grass jewel eggs would presumably be laid on the host plants. They are typically very small but can be found by carefully examining the leaves and stems of the presumed host plants for small, often spherical or ovular objects that are distinguishable from the plant tissue.
Larva Grass jewel caterpillars may be camouflaged and feed on the host plants. Look for signs of feeding damage on leaves or for frass (caterpillar droppings) on the ground beneath host plants. Gently inspect the leaves, stems, and even roots for the presence of grass jewel caterpillars.
Pupal Grass jewel chrysalises are often hidden in the vegetation or sometimes in leaf litter or crevices. They can be found by thoroughly searching the vicinity of the host plants, checking for the distinct, often mottled shapes of the pupae attached to twigs or tucked away in other secure spots.
Adult Grass jewel adults will typically be found near nectar sources such as flowering plants. An effective method to find grass jewel in this stage is to visit various flowers and blossoms, especially during sunny, still days when grass jewel is likely to be actively feeding or basking in the sunshine to warm their wing muscles.
Are Grass jewel harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Grass jewel
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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, Smell
Grass jewel is an efficient pollinator that flutters from flower to flower, sipping nectar. While doing so, it inadvertently picks up pollen on its body and transfers it to other blooms, facilitating the reproductive process of various plants.
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