Lepke

Lepke is the Hungarian term for butterflies, the diurnal insects that belong to the order Lepidoptera, which also includes moths. In common usage, lepke refer to the butterflies, often distinguished from moths by their daytime activity and typically clubbed antennae, though there is variation among species.

Butterflies share a common life cycle with complete metamorphosis: eggs are laid on plants and hatch into caterpillars (larvae) that feed on foliage. The caterpillar forms a chrysalis (pupa), from which an adult butterfly emerges. Adults typically feed on nectar with a long proboscis, and many species use wing patterns and colors for communication, camouflage, or deterrence of predators. Most lepke are insects with two pairs of wings covered in tiny scales, and a slender body, adapted for fluttering flight.

Habitat and distribution: Butterflies occur worldwide, from tropical to temperate regions, in habitats such as meadows, forests, grasslands, and gardens. Species richness is highest in the tropics, but temperate regions host diverse communities as well. Their presence often reflects the availability of flowering plants and suitable host plants for larvae.

Ecology and conservation: Butterflies play important roles as pollinators and as part of food webs. They are sensitive to environmental changes, making them useful indicators of ecosystem health. Threats include habitat loss, pesticide use, climate change, and invasive species. Conservation measures focus on preserving diverse plant communities, creating nectar sources, reducing chemical inputs, and maintaining habitat connectivity.

Cultural note: In Hungarian culture and natural history, lepke are familiar components of summer landscapes and have a long history as subjects of study, art, and photography.