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Zephyrus

Zephyrus

9.9
A former scientific name for some small butterflies called hairstreaks
  • proper noun
  • /ˈzɛfərəs/
  • Archaic
translation icon : género Zephyrus
  • Some older scientific texts still refer to these butterflies as Zephyrus.

Examples

  • The rare Zephyrus was once classified separately from other hairstreak butterflies.

  • Researchers studied the wing patterns of Zephyrus to understand butterfly evolution.

  • The Zephyrus butterfly is known for its vibrant colors.

  • Have you ever seen a Zephyrus in the wild?

  • Entomologists have identified several species previously categorized as Zephyrus within the Lycaenidae family.

  • In the field guide, the Zephyrus was listed as a separate genus from other hairstreak butterflies.

  • Older entomology references use the name Zephyrus for some hairstreak butterflies.

Surface Forms

Zephyrus main

Etymology

Zephyrus was once used as a genus name for small hairstreak butterflies because these delicate insects move as lightly as a zephyr or soft breeze. That is why older books call these butterflies Zephyrus, comparing their wings to a gentle wind.