Boloria aquilonaris

Boloria.aquilonaris.1

Boloria aquilonaris, commonly known as the Cranberry Fritillary, is a species of butterfly belonging to the family Nymphalidae. It is found in various parts of the Northern Hemisphere, including parts of Europe, Asia, and North America. The species is particularly noted for its distinctive orange and brown wing patterns, which serve as a camouflage in its natural habitat.

Description

The Cranberry Fritillary has a wingspan ranging from 38 to 42 mm. The upper side of the wings is characterized by a pattern of orange and brown patches, with small black spots scattered across. The underside of the wings features a similar color scheme but is generally lighter and may include additional markings such as white spots or bands. This coloration not only provides camouflage among the vegetation but also plays a role in thermoregulation and mating displays.

Habitat

Boloria aquilonaris thrives in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, moorlands, and boggy areas where its larval food plant, the cranberry (Vaccinium oxycoccos), is abundant. These habitats are crucial for the survival of the species, providing both the necessary food resources for the larvae and the nectar sources for the adults.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of the Cranberry Fritillary includes several stages: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult. Females lay their eggs on the underside of cranberry leaves. Upon hatching, the larvae feed on the cranberry plants, growing until they are ready to pupate. The pupal stage occurs in a cocoon attached to plant debris on the ground, leading to the emergence of the adult butterfly. This species has one generation per year, with adults typically flying from late June to early August, depending on the climate and location.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of Boloria aquilonaris varies by region, but habitat loss due to agricultural expansion, peat extraction, and climate change poses significant threats to its populations. Conservation efforts are focused on preserving natural habitats and promoting sustainable land management practices to support the species' survival.

See Also

• Nymphalidae
• Butterfly conservation
• Habitat destruction