TaxonHub
Heath Fritillary Butterfly

Heath Fritillary Butterfly

Mellicta athalia

A small orange-brown butterfly with intricate black markings, endemic to European woodlands and meadows, known for its delicate wing patterns and restricted habitat range.

Image Gallery

Heath Fritillary Butterfly
Heath Fritillary Butterfly
Heath Fritillary Butterfly
Heath Fritillary Butterfly
Heath Fritillary Butterfly
ADSENSE SLOT

Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Deciduous woodland clearings, heathlands, and flower-rich grasslands in temperate European regions, particularly prevalent in regions with moderate humidity and moderate temperatures between 10-25°C

Ecological Role

Critical pollinator species, supporting local ecosystem biodiversity, serving as prey for insectivorous birds and serving as bioindicator for habitat health

Morphology

  • SKIN COAT Scaled wing surface with microstructures providing coloration and aerodynamic properties
  • LIMBS WINGS Four delicate wings with orange-brown base color and complex black network patterns
  • HEAD SENSORY Compound eyes, short antennae, proboscis for nectar feeding
  • BODY STRUCTURE Small butterfly with wingspan of 35-45 mm, compact body with intricate wing patterns
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: gailhampshire from Cradley, Malvern, U.K
ADSENSE VERTICAL

Related Species in Nymphalidae