About Anthanassa frisia (Poey, 1833)
This species is Anthanassa frisia, described by Poey in 1833, with distinct characteristics for its documented subspecies. The wingspan of the nominate subspecies Anthanassa frisia frisia measures 32–45 mm, and adult nominate butterflies are in flight throughout most of the year in southern Florida, and year-round in tropical regions. Subspecies Anthanassa frisia tulcis has a wingspan of 32–35 mm, with adult flight occurring from May to November in southern Texas. In terms of distribution, the nominate subspecies resides in the West Indies and southern Florida, with stray individuals reaching as far north as northern Florida. Subspecies tulcis ranges northward from Argentina through Central America and Mexico to southern Texas, with strays found in west Texas and southern Arizona. All other named subspecies of Anthanassa frisia are permanent residents of South America. Ecologically, larvae of the nominate subspecies feed on Beloperone guttata. Larvae of subspecies tulcis have been recorded feeding on Dicliptera species. Ruellia species are also recorded as additional food plants for the species' larvae. Adult Anthanassa frisia butterflies feed on flower nectar.
