Factors affecting host-plant use by the montane butterfly Euphydryas gillettii (Nymphalidae)

Publication Type:

Journal Article

Authors:

Williams, Ernest H.; Bowers, M. Deane

Source:

American Midland Naturalist, University of Notre Dame, Volume 118, Issue 1, p.153-161 (1987)

Call Number:

A87WIL01IDUS

Keywords:

Euphydryas gillettii, Gillette's checkerspot, honeysuckle, Lonicera involucrate, Valeriana occidentalis

Abstract:

Egg masses of Euphydryas gillettii, a butterfly generally considered monophagous on Lonicera involucrata, were found at low frequency on another plant species, Valeriana occidentalis. The rearing of larvae on both host plants showed that survival and growth were statistically equivalent on the two plants, but digestibility of V. occidentalis was higher whereas consumption of L. involucrata was higher. The two plants both contain iridoid glycosides and are similar in leaf shape and apparency, but they differ substantially in phenology. Lonicera involucrata retains its leaves at least 2 weeks longer in the autumn than does V. occidentalis, and the increased feeding time is likely critical for these larvae in their montane habitat. Phenology, therefore, appears to restrict the range of potential host plants for E. gillettii.

Notes:

Reference Code: A87WIL01IDUS

Full Citation: Williams, E. H., and M. D. Bowers. 1987. Factors affecting host-plant use by the montane butterfly Euphydryas gillettii (Nymphalidae). American Midland Naturalist 118(1): 153-161.

Location: ANIMAL EF: EUPHYDRYAS GILLETTII