Hermas Crescent
Common NameHermas Crescent
Scientific NameAnthanassa hermas
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, cream
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings, and disturbed areas
Geographic RangeMexico south through Central America to northern South America
Host PlantsRuellia spp.
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, with multiple broods
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters on host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny, often gregarious in early instars, and feed on plants in the Acanthaceae family. Pupae are typically cryptic.
Identification TipsDistinguished by the specific arrangement and color of its cream/yellowish spots on a dark background, particularly the intricate pattern on the hindwings, which helps differentiate it from other crescent species.
Description
A small to medium-sized butterfly with dark brown to black wings heavily marked with numerous cream to yellowish-white spots arranged in distinct bands and rows across both forewings and hindwings.
