Lesser marbled fritillary (Brenthis ino)

The Lesser Marbled Fritillary is a medium-sized butterfly belonging to the family Nymphalidae. It is found in Europe and Asia, typically in wet meadows, bogs, and forest edges.

Physical Description

• Wingspan: 33–44 mm
• Coloration:
  • Upperwings: Orange with black spots and markings, resembling other fritillary species.
  • Underside of hindwings: Pale yellow-brown with a distinctive marbled pattern, giving the species its name.
• Differences from Similar Species:
  • Slightly smaller and darker than the Marbled Fritillary (Brenthis daphne).
  • More prominent marbling on the underside compared to other fritillaries.

Habitat & Distribution

• Found across Europe and temperate Asia, including:
  • Scandinavia
  • Central & Eastern Europe
  • Russia & Siberia
  • Parts of China & Japan
• Prefers moist habitats, such as:
  • Wet meadows
  • Peat bogs
  • Riverbanks
  • Forest edges with rich vegetation

Life Cycle & Behavior

• Flight Period: June – August (varies by region).
• Host Plants:
  • Primarily feeds on meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria), but also on:
    • Violets (Viola spp.)
    • Brambles (Rubus spp.)
    • Raspberry (Rubus idaeus)
• Eggs:
  • Laid on or near host plants.
• Caterpillar (Larvae):
  • Dark with spines, feeding on host plants before overwintering.
• Pupa (Chrysalis):
  • Brownish with a slightly patterned texture, attached to plant stems.
• Adult Behavior:
  • Active in warm weather, feeding on nectar from thistles, knapweed, and meadow plants.

Conservation Status

• Not globally threatened, but populations are declining in some regions due to:
  • Habitat loss (drainage of wetlands, agricultural expansion).
  • Climate change affecting their preferred wetland environments.
• Protected in some European countries where populations are at risk.

Interesting Facts

• Despite its name, it is not closely related to the Marbled Fritillary (Brenthis daphne).
• Often seen basking with open wings in the morning sun.
• Prefers humid conditions, unlike many other fritillaries that thrive in dry meadows.

Summary

The Lesser Marbled Fritillary (Brenthis ino) is a beautiful, orange-black patterned butterfly commonly found in wet meadows and boggy areas across Europe and Asia. Its distinctive marbled underside, preference for moist habitats, and reliance on meadowsweet make it an interesting and unique member of the fritillary family.

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