Kallina Emperor
Common NameKallina Emperor
Scientific NameDoxocopa kallina
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyApaturinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Primary Colorspurple, blue, black, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico south through Central America to northern South America (e.g., Brazil, Peru)
Host PlantsCeltis
Flight PeriodMultiple broods, year-round in tropical climates
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid individually on the leaves of host plants. Larvae feed on the foliage, undergoing several instars before pupating into a chrysalis, from which the adult butterfly emerges.
Identification TipsKey features include the brilliant iridescent purple-blue upperwing coloration, the distinct pattern of white spots on the forewings, and its characteristic flight pattern in tropical forest environments.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with striking iridescent deep purple-blue upperwings, bordered in black, and adorned with a series of prominent white spots on the forewings.
