Inca Metalmark
Common NameInca Metalmark
Scientific NameMesosemia inca
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsblack, orange, blue
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America to northern South America (Mexico to Peru)
Host PlantsVarious tropical plants
Flight PeriodYear-round
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically flattened and slug-like, feeding on various tropical plants, and pupation occurs on leaves or stems.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its distinct pattern of black wings with a bright orange band on the forewings and iridescent blue on the hindwings.
Description
This striking butterfly has velvety black wings with a prominent, broad orange band across the forewings and iridescent blue scaling along the inner margin of the hindwings.
