Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
Asterocampa celtis (
Boisduval and
LeConte, 1833)
Explanation of Names
Celtis is the scientific name for Hackberry, which is eaten by the caterpillars
Identification
Brown with distinctive spots on hindwings and front wings.
Subspecies are easiest to identify by where found, but there are differences in markings of both adults and of caterpillars between them. Where two subspecies meet, there is often a large area where ill-defined intermediate individuals occur (for example from Texas and northward along the eastern Great Plains, there is a huge area where specimens are intermediate between subspecies antonia and subspecies celtis
Range
Eastern United States into southwest, northern Mexico
Habitat
Deciduous woodlands with hostplant, Hackberry (Celtis)
Food
Adults take sap, fluids from dung, carrion, etc. Like the Tawny Emperor, very fond of taking sweat from humans.
Life Cycle
Larvae feed on Hackberry,
Celtis species.
Remarks
Subtly beautiful. Usually more common than the Tawny Emperor.
