Flattened chrysalis?

[alletahg]

This is my second year rearing monarchs, and last year the modest number of caterpillars I raised (about 18) were all successfully released as adults. This year I had 21 caterpillars and all made it to the chrysalis stage. However, three of them don't look right.

I rear the cats in individual plastic cups, and usually they hang from the coffee filter over the cup when they are ready to pupate. All of them did this last year. This year, I had three that attached themselves to the side of the plastic cup. The resulting chrysalis has a flat spot on one side, where the others are gently rounded. The flat spot is near the top where the chrysalis is marked by a black line and a row of gold spots.

Has this happened to anyone else, and did the butterflies emerge damaged? Thanks!

[Mona Miller]

Yes, I had a couple that didn't pick a good spot to put their silk pad. I ended up putting the cup on its side when I saw how they were hanging. But, one I didn't catch. I'm waiting to see how it ecloses/emerges.

[alletahg]

I wish I'd thought of putting the cup on its side! Seems so obvious now! These guys have at least another week to go, but I'm keeping my fingers crossed that they will be OK.

[alletahg]

Good news! The first monarch emerged from a flattened chrysalis and looks completely normal. I'm thinking the others will be fine as well!