Population dynamics of the butterfly Heliconius charitonius L. in Puerto Rico

Abstract

A multiple mark and recapture study of a Heliconius charitonius L. population in Puerto Rico was completed over a 42 week period during which 682 butterflies were marked. Population size estimates fluctuated from a low of 135 in December to 351 in October with a mean of 240. No correlation was found between population size and precipitation. Adults did not move great distances and thus resembled other helicoids that have limited home ranges. Movements within the forest were associated with adult food availability. The estimated adult maximum life span was 90 days while the mean was 26 days; males and females did not differ significantly. Sex ratio was 1.5:1, the opposite results from Costa Rica. Roosting and morphological variations were also considered.