Episcada salvinia
Common NameEpiscada salvinia
Scientific NameEpiscada salvinia
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyDanainae
Wingspan (mm)50
Primary Colorstransparent, reddish-brown, white, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, cloud forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (e.g., Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia)
Host PlantsCestrum
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates, with peaks during wet seasons
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on plants in the Solanaceae family, particularly *Cestrum* species. Adults sequester toxins from their host plants, making them unpalatable to predators, and are known for their slow flight and lekking behavior.
Identification TipsKey features include the extensive wing transparency, the reddish-brown outlining of the wings and veins, and the specific pattern of white opaque spots on the forewings. Distinguishing from similar glasswing species requires careful observation of these patterns and venation.
Description
This butterfly features largely transparent wings with prominent reddish-brown veins and margins, accented by distinct white opaque patches on the forewings. Its slender body is dark.
