Black-bordered Crescent
Common NameBlack-bordered Crescent
Scientific NameAnthanassa texana
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Primary Colorsorange, black, brown
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, roadsides, disturbed areas, forest edges
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (primarily Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, Florida), Mexico, Central America, and northern South America
Host PlantsRuellia caroliniensis, Ruellia tuberosa, various other Acanthaceae species
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; multiple broods from spring to fall in temperate zones
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny, dark caterpillars that feed on various species of Ruellia. Pupation occurs as a chrysalis, leading to the adult butterfly.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive bright orange upperwings with a broad, solid dark border. The underside often has a more complex pattern of brown, orange, and white markings, but the dorsal view is key for its common name.
Description
This butterfly has bright orange upperwings with a prominent dark brown to black border along the margins and apex, and some darker markings near the body. The underside is typically a mottled brown and orange pattern, providing camouflage.
