Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
Minno et al
(1) list as
Basilarchia arthemis astyanax, apparently a new name.
Explanation of Names
White Admiral (Limentis arthemis form arthemis) - the northern form, basically black and white in the east, In the west specimens tend to have red spots on the hind wing and are called Western White Admirals (Limentis arthemis form rubrofasciata).
In the SE USA and as far north as extreme southern Ontario this species is black and purple (no white band)and is called Red-Spotted Purple (Limentis arthemis form astyanax).
As the 3 forms are regarded as being the same species, intergrades between them are quite common.
Identification
Red-Spotted Purple mimics the Pipevine Swallowtail, but its hind wings lack the tails and Pipevine lacks spots at wing base.
Compare Pipevine Swallowtail (below):
Food
Larvae feed on cherry, willow, birch and some other trees and shrubs. Adults will take moisture from mud puddles, rotten fruit and animal feces.
Remarks
Comments from Robin McLeod, 10 November, 2005, on subspecies with links can be found
herePrint References
Opler, pp. 278-279 & plate 24
(2)
Minno, Butler & Hall pp. 112, 183
(1)
Glassberg, Minno & Calhoun p. 96
(3)
