This genus has the fore wings elongated, but less so than in Colænis. The cell in the hind wing is open. The palpi are much more robust and heavily clothed with hairs than in Colænis, thus resembling those of the genus Argynnis. Like Argynnis the under side of the wings of all species of Dione is spotted with silver.
There are a half dozen species of Dione in the New World, all but one of which occur outside of our limits. They are gloriously beautiful insects.
(1) Dione vanillæ (Linnæus) (The Gulf Fritillary). [Plate VI], ♂.
This lovely insect ranges from southern Virginia southward and westward to southern California, and thence further south, wherever the sun shines and Passion-flowers bloom. The figure on the plate does not show the magnificent markings of the under side of the wings, but catch one, and you will see that you have a beauty in your possession. Expanse 2.75 to 3.25 inches.
Genus EUPTOIETA Doubleday
PL. VII
There are two species of this genus found in the United States. The butterfly has the cell of the fore wing closed by a feeble veinlet and the cell of the hind wing open. The antennæ and palpi resemble those of the genus Argynnis. The under sides of the wings are not spotted with silvery marks.
(1) Euptoieta claudia (Cramer), The Variegated Fritillary. [Plate VII], Fig. 1, ♂; Fig. 2, under side.
The caterpillar feeds upon the leaves of Passion-flowers and violets. It is reddish yellow in color, with black spines on the segments, white spots on the back, and dark brown bands running the long way on the sides. The chrysalis is pearly white mottled with black spots and streaks. The insect ranges from southern New England south and west, and is reported from as far north as Alberta. It goes as far as Argentina in the south. Expanse ♂, 1.75 to 2.25 inches; ♀, 2.25 to 2.75 inches.