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Chrysalis Definition
What many people refer to as a butterfly's "cocoon" is actually called a "chrysalis." A caterpillar spins this protective shield as a place for the transformation from walking insect to flying insect to take place. This stage generally lasts about two weeks.
A cocoon is spun by a caterpillar that will become a moth, not a butterfly. The process is similar, but the terminology is different.
Caterpillar Appearance
As caterpillars eat and grow, their outward appearance changes, and they begin to molt. Caterpillars go through several molting phases known as instars. Each instar gives a caterpillar a different appearance while it grows big enough to enter its next stage of life. The wings of the future butterfly actually grow under the skin of the caterpillar during its fifth instar.
Chysalis Types
As many types of chrysalis exist as species of butterflies, and more than 3,000 butterfly species have been found throughout the world. The Baltimore Checkerspot's chrysalis is white with black specks and orange spots, while the Monarch's chrysalis is smooth green. The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail's chrysalis is brown to blend with tree bark, while the Ruddy Daggerwing's chrysalis is bright orange and yellow.
Evolution's Effect
Each butterfly's chrysalis has evolved to suit the needs of the insect at that stage of its life and the region in which it resides. Whether a chrysalis blends in with leaves and trees or looks like poisonous fruit, its appearance helps to protect the caterpillar inside at a vulnerable stage in its life cycle.