Clouded Apollo
Common NameClouded Apollo
Scientific NameParnassius mnemosyne
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyParnassiinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, black, grey
HabitatMountain meadows, forest clearings, subalpine grasslands, often near woodlands
Geographic RangeCentral and Eastern Europe, Russia, Central Asia
Host PlantsCorydalis solida, Corydalis cava, Corydalis intermedia
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, typically Corydalis species. Larvae are dark with orange spots and pupate in a loose cocoon on the ground. It is univoltine, having one generation per year.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its translucent white wings and the absence of red eyespots, which are common in other Parnassius species like the Apollo. Look for the specific pattern of black spots on the forewings and the greyish tint on the hindwing margins.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with translucent white wings, prominent black spots on the forewings, and a distinctive greyish or greenish wash on the hindwing margins.
