Malachite
Image: Bolatlt (CC BY 4.0)
Common NameMalachite
Scientific NameSiproeta stelenes
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)90
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsgreen, black, brown, blue-green
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, gardens
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America, Southern North America (Mexico, occasionally Texas and Florida)
Host PlantsBlechum pyramidatum, Ruellia spp.
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; May to November in temperate areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Eggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are spiny and feed on leaves, while pupae are camouflaged as leaves or twigs.
Identification TipsIdentify by the distinctive black and bright green (or yellow-green) banded pattern on the upperside of the wings. The underside features a similar pattern in lighter brown and olive/blue-green tones.
Description
The Malachite butterfly has large wings with a striking pattern of black and brilliant green or yellow-green on the upperside, and light brown and olive green on the underside.
