Numata Longwing vs Common Potter Wasp
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Numata Longwing | Common Potter Wasp |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Heliconius numata | Eumenes fraternus |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Nymphalidae | Vespidae |
| Size | 60-75 mm wingspan | 13-17 mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Underground |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | South America (Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Bolivia) | Eastern North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Numata Longwing
A remarkable butterfly that exists in over a dozen wing pattern forms, each mimicking a different species of toxic Melinaea butterfly. Despite their different appearances, all forms belong to the same species. Wing pattern variation is controlled by a supergene on a single chromosome.
Did You Know?
Its wing pattern diversity is controlled by a chromosomal inversion that acts as a supergene, one of the best-studied examples of this genetic mechanism.
Common Potter Wasp
A North American potter wasp that builds small globular mud cells on plant stems and twigs. The female suspends her egg on a silk thread inside the pot before sealing it.
Did You Know?
The egg is hung on a thread from the ceiling of the pot so the larva can begin eating the paralyzed caterpillars below without being crushed.