Lysippus Metalmark
Common NameLysippus Metalmark
Scientific NameRhetus lysippus
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsdark brown, orange, iridescent blue
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings, often near streams
Geographic RangeCentral America (Mexico to Panama) and South America (Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil)
Host PlantsVarious tropical plants, Melastomataceae
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical habitats
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically flattened and may exhibit myrmecophily, associating with ants. Pupae are often cryptic, blending with their environment.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive bright orange bands on dark wings, combined with the iridescent blue-purple spots. The slightly pointed forewing apex and angled hindwing margin are also characteristic.
Description
This butterfly has dark brown to black wings adorned with a prominent, bright orange band extending across both the forewings and hindwings. The outer margins of the wings feature rows of small, iridescent blue-purple spots.
