Butterflies are some of the most beautiful and fascinating insects in the world. There are over 18,000 species of butterflies identified so far, found on every continent except Antarctica. With so many different types of butterflies, they can have a wide variety of names. In this article, we will explore 5 of the most common names given to different butterfly species. Understanding the origins and meanings behind butterfly names can help us better appreciate the diversity and wonder of these insects.
Swallowtail
One of the most widespread butterfly names is the swallowtail. There are over 550 species of swallowtail butterflies, characterized by their distinctive ‘tails’ on their hindwings that resemble the tail of a swallow bird. Some of the most popular swallowtails include:
– The black swallowtail, scientifically known as Papilio polyxenes. Native to North America, these striking black butterflies have yellow spots and striking blue and orange markings near their tails.
– The western tiger swallowtail, Papilio rutulus. Found across western North America, these large butterflies are yellow with black ‘tiger stripes’ and a long black tail with a blue spot.
– The spicebush swallowtail, Papilio troilus. Living in the eastern United States, these pale greenish-yellow swallowtails get their name from the spicebush plant their caterpillars feed on.
The name ‘swallowtail’ likely refers to their forked, v-shaped tails that are reminiscent of the forked tails of swallow birds in flight. These tails serve an important function, helping the butterflies steer and maneuver.
Monarch
One of the most beloved butterfly species is known as the monarch butterfly. Scientifically called Danaus plexippus, these vivid orange and black beauties are known for their incredible mass migrations. Each fall, millions of monarchs across the United States and Canada migrate over 3000 miles to overwintering grounds in Mexico and California.
The monarch gets its regal name from its large size and brilliant orange wings, reminiscent of a monarch’s flowing robes. Their signature wings are a warning sign to predators that monarchs are toxic, getting their toxins from the milkweed plants their caterpillars feed on. The monarch is the state insect of multiple U.S. states and is an iconic North American species.
Painted Lady
Widespread across North America, Europe, and Asia, the painted lady butterfly earns its name from its intricate, detailed wing patterns. Scientifically called Vanessa cardui, these medium-sized butterflies have orange and brown wings with striking black, white, and blue markings. These markings resemble brush strokes of paint, giving rise to the painted lady name.
Painted ladies are one of the most widespread butterfly species in the world. Each year, they migrate long distances in massive numbers, with millions making the journey across North America alone. Their ability to migrate long distances to find suitable habitats helps explain their expansive range across continents. The painted lady’s delicate painted wings are a beautiful sight to behold during its seasonal travels.
Morpho Butterfly
Native to Central and South America, Morpho butterflies are some of the most brilliant blue butterflies on Earth. They belong to the genus Morpho, which includes over 80 described species. Their vivid metallic blue wings shine iridescently in the sunlight, giving them their name ‘Morpho’ which comes from the Ancient Greek word for ‘changing form’ or ‘transform.’
Some of the most stunning Morpho species include:
– The blue Morpho, Morpho menelaus, with wings of shimmering turquoise blue outlined in black.
– The eight-spoted blue Morpho, Morpho octavia, that lives up to its name with eight distinct blue spots on its wings.
– Wallace’s Morpho, Morpho helenor, is one of the largest Morpho species, with wingspans reaching up to 8 inches wide.
The Morpho’s dazzling blue wings are created not from blue pigment, but through the physical structure of the scales on their wings. Their wings contain layered ridges that reflect blue light, creating their spectacular color through optical physics. These blue beauties use their flashy wings to attract mates and scare off predators in the jungles where they live.
Cabbage White
One of the most common butterflies, known for being agricultural pests, is called the cabbage white. Belonging to the Pieris genus, these dainty white butterflies get their name from their pale white wings and their penchant for laying eggs on cabbage crops and other cruciferous plants.
Some of the cabbage white species include:
– The large cabbage white, Pieris brassicae, widely distributed across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Their large size and rapid reproduction enables them to destroy cabbage and broccoli crops.
– The small cabbage white, Pieris rapae, is native to Europe but was introduced to North America, Australia, and New Zealand, where it damages produce as an invasive species.
– The western cabbage white, Pieris occidentalis, a native North American species that can be a pest of vegetable gardens.
While the cabbage white butterflies are seen as pests by farmers and gardeners, their name also evokes the delicate beauty of these small white butterflies fluttering through fields. Their wispy white wings and swift flight remain an iconic summertime sight, even as they munch on the greens humans also enjoy.
Conclusion
Butterfly names can provide meaningful insight into the attributes and histories of these important insects. Swallowtails get their name from their forked, bird-like tails, while monarchs are named for their grand, orange wings resembling royal robes. Painted ladies and Morpho butterflies dazzle with their intricate colored wing patterns, and the humble cabbage white is named for its simple white wings and agriculture pest status.
With over 18,000 butterfly species in the world, these names represent just a small sampling of the diversity and creativity in butterfly naming. Butterfly names allow us to understand and connect with these creatures, while also adding color and poetry to our language about the natural world. The interplay between science and metaphor in butterfly names is one of the small but meaningful ways butterflies contribute beauty and interest to our lives.
