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Rocky mountain parnassian

Rocky mountain parnassian

Parnassius smintheus

A species of Apollos, Also known as Sierra nevada parnassian

The butterfly ranges in color from white to pale yellow-brown, with red and black markings that indicate to predators it is unpalatable.

General Info About Rocky mountain parnassian
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Attributes of Rocky mountain parnassian
Colors
Black
White
Orange
Habitat
meadow
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from alpine flowers, nectar from asteraceae family flowers, nectar from lamiaceae family flowers, nectar from fabaceae family flowers, nectar from various flowering plants in alpine meadows
Larva Food Source
Leaves of stonecrop species (such as sedum lanceolatum), leaves of crassulaceae family plants, potentially other similar alpine succulent plants
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Rocky mountain parnassian 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 Rocky mountain parnassian 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 Rocky mountain parnassian
It is found in the Rocky Mountains throughout the United States and Canada.
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Distribution Area of Rocky mountain parnassian
United States, Canada
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Life Cycle of Rocky mountain parnassian
Egg After oviposition, the eggs of rocky mountain parnassian hatch, giving rise to tiny larvae. Eggs are generally spherical, with colors that blend into the host plant.
Larva The larvae, or caterpillars, of rocky mountain parnassian undergo multiple molts, growing significantly in size with each instar. They are voracious, primarily feeding on host plants, with coloration often resembling their food source for camouflage.
Pupal Upon reaching sufficient size and weight, larvae of rocky mountain parnassian enter the pupal stage, forming a chrysalis. During this stage, the pupa is immobile and transformation occurs, with tissues rearranging into adult structures.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult rocky mountain parnassian’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 Rocky mountain parnassian
5 - 8 cm
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Predators of Rocky mountain parnassian Larvae
Birds, rodents, ants, wasps, spiders, parasitic flies
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Scientific Classification of Rocky mountain parnassian
Tips for Finding Rocky mountain parnassian
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Youth Habitat of Rocky mountain parnassian
Mountains and Alpine Regions
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Adult Habitat of Rocky mountain parnassian
Mountains and Alpine Regions
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How Can You Attract Rocky mountain parnassian
For capturing rocky mountain parnassian, one might use traps baited with substances they are attracted to. This can include bait traps with fermented fruit or fish to attract adult rocky mountain parnassian, as this is a known attractant for many Lepidoptera.
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Habitat Preferences of Rocky mountain parnassian Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of rocky mountain parnassian are typically laid on or near host plants specific to the species, often stonecrop or saxifrage in alpine or subalpine meadows. Caterpillars can be found munching on these plants, seeking shelter under nearby rocks or debris during molting. Chrysalides, typically attached to plant stems or hidden in crevices, experience pupation in the same general vicinity. Adults, with their striking wing patterns, routinely visit a variety of flowering plants for nectar, so when searching for them, look in mountainous meadows or along streams and valleys in such regions. While questing for rocky mountain parnassian at different stages, keen observation in these habitats is essential.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Rocky mountain parnassian
The best time to find rocky mountain parnassian would depend on its activity periods. Typically, adult rocky mountain parnassian are most active during sunny days, especially mid-late morning when the sun has warmed their muscles enough for flight. For larvae or eggs, there may not be a specific time of day, but the active growing season for the host plants would be ideal.
Are Rocky mountain parnassian harmful?
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Usually, the rocky mountain parnassian won't threaten or hurt humans. But remember that even a worm will turn. Remember to still be cautious.

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Are Rocky mountain parnassian harmful to humans?

They are not a poisonous butterfly, but they have a special gland that secretes bad smells and chemicals.
Beneficial Effects of Rocky mountain parnassian
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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
Rocky mountain parnassian is a known pollinator whose activities inadvertently contribute to the pollination of various plants. While feeding on nectar, it gets pollen on its body, next accidentally transferring this pollen onto other flowers, aiding in their reproduction.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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