Melanis xenia
Common NameMelanis xenia
Scientific NameMelanis xenia
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsblack, yellow, red
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico to Central America and northern South America (e.g., Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil)
Host PlantsInga spp., Mimosa spp.
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult. Larvae are typically flattened and may be cryptic.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its dark wings with prominent yellow bands and two distinct red spots at the base of the forewings. The hindwing margin is also yellow and often slightly scalloped.
Description
A striking metalmark butterfly with dark brown to black wings, featuring broad, bright yellow bands across both forewings and hindwings, and two prominent red spots near the base of the forewings.
