Monarch Butterfly Species
Monarch Butterfly Species There are approximately 1.5 million insect species on our planet. Of this number scientists have identified about 200,000 varieties of moths and butterflies (Lepidoptera). While the moths compose a huge percent of this number, some 20,000 butterfly species have been identified, and they can be found around the globe, even in the deserts and frozen regions. As field research continues, new butterfly species are being discovered every year. The Wildlife Conservation Society auctions off the rights to name new species, and the sizable monies collected are used for very worthwhile endeavors. One of the largest collections of butterflies in the world is at the McGuire Center. They have over 6 million specimens of Lepidoptera. The Monarch Butterfly’s scientific name is Danaus Plesippus. This butterfly is distinguished by orange patterned wings with a small white spot in the center. During the female's short life span she may lay between 300 and 700 eggs....