Atthis Longwing
Image: Kjrunner70 (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Common NameAtthis Longwing
Scientific NameHeliconius atthis
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)65
Primary Colorsblack, white, cream
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America (Costa Rica, Panama) to northwestern South America (Colombia, Ecuador)
Host PlantsPassiflora spp. (passion vines)
Flight PeriodYear-round
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, typically Passiflora vines. Larvae feed on the leaves, sequestering defensive toxins, and pupate into often cryptic chrysalises. Adults emerge to feed on nectar and pollen.
Identification TipsKey features include the specific arrangement of broad white or cream bands and spots on a black background, especially the prominent band across the forewing and the distinct markings on the hindwing. Its long, narrow forewings are characteristic of the Heliconius genus.
Description
This medium-sized butterfly has black wings prominently marked with broad white or cream bands and distinct spots, particularly on both forewings and hindwings.
