Map Butterfly
FamilyNymphalidae
Scientific NameAraschnia levana
RangeEurope, Asia
HabitatWoodland edges
About the Map Butterfly
A famous example of seasonal polyphenism. The spring generation is orange with black spots, while the summer generation is black with white bands and looks like a different species. Day length experienced by the caterpillars controls which form develops. The underside is covered in fine lines that look like a map. Caterpillars feed on nettles.
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