Atala
Common NameAtala
Scientific NameEumaeus atala
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Primary Colorsblack, blue, red
HabitatCoastal hammocks, pine rocklands, suburban gardens, and other areas where its host plant grows
Geographic RangeSoutheastern Florida (USA), Cuba, Bahamas, and other Caribbean islands; also parts of Central America
Host PlantsCoontie (Zamia integrifolia)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical parts of its range, with multiple broods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters on the new growth of coontie plants. Larvae are bright red with yellow spots and feed gregariously on coontie leaves, sequestering toxins. Pupae are mottled brown and green.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive velvety black wings with metallic blue-green spots and a prominent bright red abdomen. The larvae are also very distinctive, being bright red with yellow spots.
Description
A striking butterfly with velvety black wings adorned with iridescent blue-green spots, and a bright red abdomen.
