Amber Phantom
Common NameAmber Phantom
Scientific NameCithaerias pireta
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Primary Colorstransparent, green, orange, black, red
HabitatTropical rainforests, especially the understory near streams
Geographic RangeCentral America to South America (Mexico to Brazil and Bolivia)
Host PlantsLikely grasses or sedges (Poaceae/Cyperaceae), specific plants not well-documented
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical habitats, with peaks during wet seasons
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult. Larvae are typically cryptic, feeding on host plants.
Identification TipsKey features include the largely transparent wings, the distinctive iridescent green/yellow/orange hindwing patch with multiple black and red-ringed eyespots, and its slow flight in the shaded understory of tropical forests.
Description
A delicate butterfly with mostly transparent forewings and hindwings featuring a vibrant iridescent patch of green, yellow, and orange, adorned with prominent black eyespots ringed in red.
