Iphidamas Cattleheart
Common NameIphidamas Cattleheart
Scientific NameParides iphidamas
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)80
Primary Colorsblack, red, pink, white
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America (Mexico to Panama) and northern South America (Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela)
Host PlantsAristolochia species (pipevines)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, peaking during wet season
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed exclusively on *Aristolochia* vines, sequestering toxins that make them unpalatable to predators throughout their life stages. Undergoes complete metamorphosis from egg to larva, pupa, and adult.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive black wings with a broad, bright pink or red band on the hindwings and a red body. The forewings may have small white spots near the apex.
Description
A medium-sized black butterfly characterized by a prominent broad pink to red band across the hindwings and a striking red abdomen and thorax.
