Genus Dione Hübner
This genus has the fore wings elongated, but less so than in Colænis. The cell in the hind wing is open. The palpi are much more robust and heavily clothed with hairs than in Colænis, thus resembling those of the genus Argynnis. Like Argynnis the under side of the wings of all species of Dione is spotted with silver.
There are a half dozen species of Dione in the New World, all but one of which occur outside of our limits. They are gloriously beautiful insects.
(1) Dione vanillæ (Linnæus) (The Gulf Fritillary). Plate VI, ♂.
This lovely insect ranges from southern Virginia southward and westward to southern California, and thence further south, wherever the sun shines and Passion-flowers bloom. The figure on the plate does not show the magnificent markings of the under side of the wings, but catch one, and you will see that you have a beauty in your possession. Expanse 2.75 to 3.25 inches.