silverspotted skipper (Epargyreus clarus) adult-2
The drivers that affect survival rates of butterfly and moth pupae is understudied compared to their larval and adult stages. A new study examines silverspotted skippers (Epargyreus clarus, adult shown here) in their most vulnerable stage (pupae)—and why their overwintering generations survive pupation at much higher rates than summer generations. (Photo by Martha Weiss, Ph.D.)