Cypria Metalmark
Common NameCypria Metalmark
Scientific NameEmesis cypria
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsdark brown, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico, Central America, northern South America (e.g., Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil)
Host PlantsFabaceae (legumes), Malpighiaceae
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, with increased activity during rainy seasons
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are typically flattened or slug-like, feeding on host plants before pupating into a chrysalis.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive broad orange diagonal band on the dark brown forewings, combined with the wavy, darker brown patterns on the hindwings.
Description
This small to medium-sized butterfly has dark brown wings. Its forewings are marked with a prominent, broad diagonal orange band, while the hindwings display several darker, wavy transverse bands.
