Species Page: Aphrodite Fritillary (Argynnis aphrodite)

Family: Nymphalidae

Status: Occasional resident

NENHP Ranking: S3, Tier 2

Range: With the exception of the westernmost states and provinces, this species occupies roughly the southern half of Canada and the northern half of the United States. In Nebraska is currently occupies the panhandle and has, in the past, been found scattered through much of the rest of the state.

Larval Hostplant(s): Violets (Viola sp.)

Broods/Flight Times: There is one flight in Nebraska where it has been recorded from 11 May – 25 August.

Overwintering: As newly hatched larvae.

Habitat: Western Nebraska populations frequent forested areas with scarps and ridges while eastern populations are more prairie oriented.

Avg. Wingspan: 2 1/2 – 3 1/4 inches

Found at: Gilbert-Baker & Ponderosa SWMAs, I-80 East Sidney Rest Area, Wildcat Hills SRA, Ash Hollow SHP

Similar Species: Great Spangled Fritillary

Notes: This butterfly has been found in the state as two rather distinct subspecies. Western Nebraska populations are somewhat variable but appear to be closely aligned to the high plains subspecies  manitoba. Subspecies alcestis  (found north and east of the state) was apparently widespread in eastern Nebraska in the past (early 1900s) but has not been recorded there since O. D. Spencer found one in Lancaster County in 1978.