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Small apollo

Small apollo

Parnassius phoebus

A species of Apollos, Also known as Phoebus apollo

Adorned with a mosaic of white and black, small apollo flutters across alpine meadows, its wings punctuated by vibrant red ocelli. This denizen of high elevations relies on a diet primarily of nectar, while its caterpillars feed on stonecrop and houseleek. Each stage of its life cycle is a masterclass in adaptation, from the eggs enduring harsh winters to the larvae's specialized feeding on limited floral resources.

General Info About Small apollo
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Attributes of Small apollo
Habitat
Mountains at 1,600 to 2,800 meters, in particular between 1,800 and 2,200 meters above sea level, in humid damp and wet places such as edges of mountain streams and near springs and fresh seepages and in valleys (Schneetälchen) according to the preferences of its caterpillar food plant.
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from thistles, nectar from butterfly bushes, nectar from asters, nectar from milkweed, nectar from echinacea
Larva Food Source
Sedum species, saxifraga species, oxyria digyna
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Small apollo is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Small apollo 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 Small apollo 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
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Species Status of Small apollo
Widespread
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Distribution Area of Small apollo
North America
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Life Cycle of Small apollo
Egg Upon deposition, small apollo eggs are small and ovate, often laid on or near host plants. The color and texture may vary, signaling the egg's health and development stage.
Larva Emerging from the egg, the small apollo larva, or caterpillar, exhibits a voracious appetite for host plants. It exhibits significant size increase, molts several times, and its color pattern may change.
Pupal The small apollo enters the pupal stage within a chrysalis, undergoing extensive reorganization of body structures. It doesn't feed but slowly transforms, the chrysalis color blending with the environment.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult small apollo’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 apollo
Wingspan 6 - 8 cm
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Interesting Facts About Small apollo
Despite appearing delicate, small apollo can thrive in mountainous environments, where it's surprisingly resistant to cold temperatures.
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Scientific Classification of Small apollo
Tips for Finding Small apollo
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Youth Habitat of Small apollo
Mountains and Alpine Regions
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Adult Habitat of Small apollo
Mountains and Alpine Regions, Meadows, Forested regions
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How Can You Attract Small apollo
The trap food for small apollo should be tailored to its dietary preferences in different growth stages. Adult small apollo are attracted to nectar-rich flowers, while caterpillars may prefer specific host plants.
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Habitat Preferences of Small apollo Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of small apollo are typically laid on herbaceous plants or stones near host plants in alpine meadows. Searching for the eggs would involve examining these specific plants or stones. Caterpillars can be found on or near their host plants, feeding on the leaves, requiring searches focused on the appropriate host plants. Pupae are often located in sheltered places near the ground, such as under rocks or leaf litter, so one would look close to the ground around the host plant area. Adults are usually seen flying in alpine and sub-alpine regions, near nectar sources, or hilltopping on peaks for mating rituals, and one would conduct searches in these open areas for sightings of the flying adults.
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How and Where Can You Find Small apollo at Different Life Stages
Egg Small apollo eggs can be located on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, inspect the specific plants known to be hosts for small apollo and carefully observe for tiny, spherical eggs.
Larva Caterpillars of small apollo are more conspicuous and can be spotted on host plants. Look for signs of feeding, such as chewed leaves, and search along the stems and both sides of leaves for the caterpillars.
Pupal Small apollo's chrysalis may be attached to plant stems or concealed in leaf litter. Finding them requires searching close to where the last larval stage was feeding, carefully examining the surrounding area for the camouflaged pupa.
Adult Small apollo can be spotted flying in areas with an abundance of flowering plants. To observe them, walk slowly and look for adult butterflies basking in the sun, feeding on nectar, or participating in mating behaviors.
Are Small apollo harmful?
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Are Small apollo harmful to humans?

They are not a poisonous butterfly, but they have a special gland that secretes bad smells and chemicals.
Beneficial Effects of Small apollo
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Small apollo are inadvertent pollinators, often brushing against the anthers and pistils while seeking nectar. Their attraction to blossoms is guided by bright colors and distinct shapes, leading to accidental pollen transfer in their quest for sustenance.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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