Hercules Morpho
Common NameHercules Morpho
Scientific NameMorpho hercules
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyMorphinae
Wingspan (mm)150
Primary Colorsdark brown, iridescent blue, cream
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges
Geographic RangeSouth America (Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Paraguay, Argentina)
Host PlantsInga species, Machaerium species
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLike all butterflies, it undergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult. Larvae are typically hairy and feed on specific host plants before pupating.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its immense size, the dark brown upperwing coloration with a strong iridescent blue-green central patch, and the clear row of pale spots on both forewings and hindwings. The underside is cryptic brown with prominent eyespots.
Description
A very large butterfly with dark brown upperwings, featuring a prominent iridescent blue-green sheen on the central hindwing area and a distinct row of cream-colored spots along the forewing and hindwing margins.
