Malachite butterfly
Common NameMalachite butterfly
Scientific NameSiproeta stelenes
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)90
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsgreen, black, brown
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouthern Florida (USA), Mexico, Central America, South America, Caribbean
Host PlantsRuellia, Blechum pyramidatum, Phyllocharis
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropics; May to November in northern parts of range
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are black with branched spines and head horns. Pupae are green or brown, resembling a dead leaf.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its unique pattern of bright green patches on a dark background. The underside is similar but duller.
Description
A striking butterfly with broad, bright malachite green bands and spots on a dark brown to black background, often with a scalloped wing margin.
