Green-celled Cattleheart
Common NameGreen-celled Cattleheart
Scientific NameParides sesostris
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)80
Primary Colorsblack, green, red
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico, Central America, and northern South America
Host PlantsAristolochia species
Flight PeriodYear-round
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on toxic Aristolochia vines, making them unpalatable to predators. The pupa is typically cryptic, resembling a twig or leaf.
Identification TipsKey features include the large iridescent green-yellow patch on the forewings and the bright red patch on the hindwings, both contrasting sharply with the black background.
Description
A large, striking butterfly with velvety black wings. The forewings feature a large, iridescent green-yellow patch, while the hindwings display a prominent crimson-red patch near the body.
