Elada Checkerspot
Common NameElada Checkerspot
Scientific NameTexola elada
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black, brown
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, desert washes, scrublands, open woodlands, canyons
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, southern California) and Mexico
Host PlantsAmbrosia, Hymenoclea monogyra
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters on host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny and gregarious in early instars, feeding on host plants before pupating into a chrysalis.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size, the specific arrangement of orange and dark spots, and the presence of white marginal dots on the wings. The underside pattern is also key for identification.
Description
A small butterfly with a striking pattern of bright orange spots and bands on a dark brown to black background, often with a row of white dots along the wing margins.
