Long-tailed Metalmark
Common NameLong-tailed Metalmark
Scientific NameRhetus arcius
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsblack, blue, white, pink, red
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, often near streams and rivers
Geographic RangeMexico, Central America, and tropical South America (e.g., Brazil, Peru, Ecuador)
Host Plantsvarious tropical broadleaf plants
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are typically flattened and may be myrmecophilous (associated with ants), feeding on the leaves of host plants.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its black wings with prominent iridescent blue and white stripes, combined with the distinctive long, electric blue tails on the hindwings, often with pink and red markings at their base.
Description
A striking black butterfly adorned with iridescent blue and white stripes on its forewings, and long, brilliant blue tails on its hindwings, accented with vibrant pink and red near the body.
