Common Blue Morpho
Image: DutchTreat (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Common NameCommon Blue Morpho
Scientific NameMorpho peleides
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyMorphinae
Wingspan (mm)135
Wing Patterniridescent
Primary Colorsblue, black, brown
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean
Host PlantsPterocarpus, Inga, Lonchocarpus, Machaerium, Mucuna, Dalbergia
Flight PeriodYear-round
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are pale green, laid singly on host plants. Larvae are reddish-brown with bright green patches and tufts of hair, feeding nocturnally. Pupae are light green, smooth, and camouflaged.
Identification TipsThe unmistakable metallic blue sheen on the dorsal side of the wings, which appears to flash as the butterfly moves, and the cryptic brown undersides with a row of eyespots.
Description
A large, spectacular butterfly known for its brilliant, iridescent blue upperwings that flash as it flies, contrasting with dull brown undersides marked with several prominent eyespots.
