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Danaidae

Danaidae

1 9.9
A former family of tropical butterflies including the monarch with large wings and slow flight
  • noun
  • /ˈdeɪnəˌeɪdi/
  • Archaic
: Danaidae
  • Many species previously in the Danaidae family are now classified as part of Nymphalidae.

Examples

  • Scientists once classified the monarch butterfly within Danaidae before taxonomic revisions.

  • Look at that stunning Danaidae fluttering by!

  • The Danaidae are known for their striking wing patterns and slow flight.

  • The Danaidae family includes the beautiful monarch butterfly.

  • The Danaidae family includes the beautiful monarch butterfly, known for its vibrant orange and black wings.

  • Large and colorful, the Danaidae are often seen gliding lazily through tropical gardens.

  • A common sight in warm climates, the Danaidae are admired for their graceful flight and striking appearance.

Synonyms

family Danaidae
vsDanaidae
  • Specialized
7.9

A small group of tropical butterflies that includes monarchs

focuses on large size and slow graceful flight rather than group size

Surface Forms

Danaidae singular
Danaidaes plural

Etymology

Danaidae comes from the Greek name Danaus, a character in a myth who was a king. Because this group includes the famous monarch butterfly, a helpful way to remember Danaidae is to think of it as 'the king's family' for these large, slow, showy butterflies.