126 



INTRODUCTION 



But in North Ireland, where Sphinx convolvuli is relatively abundant, Convolvulus 

 sepium (according to T. H. Corry) is even commoner than C. arvensis. 



There are transitional forms connecting the two 

 groups of Lepidopterid Flowers. Hermann Miiller 

 (Kosmos, iii, 1878, pp. 420-4) regards the following as 

 such: — Daphne striata, Anacamptis pyramidalis, Gymna- 

 denia conopea and odoratissima, Crocus vernus, and 

 Lilium Martagon. The two first-named species represent 

 all stages between Butterfly Flowers and Moth Flowers, 

 for Hermann Miiller often observed that in the same 

 alpine stations all colour gradations between rose red 

 and white grew side by side. Butterflies and moths 

 alike were observed as visitors and pollinators of both 

 species. Crocus vernus and Gymnadenia odoratissima 

 do not fluctuate in this undecided way between Butterfly 

 Flowers and Moth Flowers, but incline distinctly to the 

 latter group, as their colour only varies from white to 

 pale rose. The circle of guests, in conformity with this 

 coloration, consists chiefly of moths. 



While the four species just named show themselves 

 to be transitional forms between Butterfly Flowers and 

 Moth Flowers by displaying variable coloration, Ana- 

 camptis pyramidalis and Lilium Martagon do this in 

 a different way. They possess vivid colours and thus 

 attract butterflies, but they also open in the evening and then emit a powerful and 

 pleasing odour, by which moths (especially nocturnal Hawk-moths) are enticed. 



Fig. 38. Crocus vernus^ L , a 

 Butterfly and Moth Flower. 



Fig. 39. Gcntiana ■nerna, L., a diamal Hawk-moth Flower. (After Hcrm. Miiller, 

 ' Alpenbliunen/ p. 340.) 



