Amathonte Morpho
Common NameAmathonte Morpho
Scientific NameMorpho amathonte
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyMorphinae
Wingspan (mm)120
Wing Patterniridescent
Primary Colorsblue, black, brown
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America (Costa Rica, Panama) and northern South America (Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador)
Host PlantsInga, Machaerium, Erythroxylum
Flight PeriodYear-round
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesFemales lay single eggs on the leaves of host plants. The caterpillars are typically spiny and feed on foliage, while the pupae are smooth and green, often resembling leaves.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its large size and the dazzling, metallic blue coloration of its upperwings, which are visible when it flies or basks. The undersides are cryptic brown with several prominent eyespots.
Description
A large, spectacular butterfly known for its brilliant, iridescent blue upperwings that shimmer with light, contrasting with dark brown or black margins.
