Ortilia gentina
Scientific NameOrtilia gentina
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico to northern South America (e.g., Colombia, Ecuador, Peru)
Host PlantsJusticia species
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, with peaks during rainy seasons
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult. Larvae feed on specific host plants, primarily in the Acanthaceae family.
Identification TipsKey visual features include the bright orange ground color contrasted with prominent black wing borders and complex black markings on the upperside, especially the forewing. The overall pattern is quite distinctive for the genus Ortilia.
Description
A small to medium-sized butterfly with vibrant orange wings featuring broad black borders on both forewings and hindwings, and intricate black patterns within the orange areas, particularly on the forewing apex and discal cell.
