Memphis acidalia
Common NameMemphis acidalia
Scientific NameMemphis acidalia
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyCharaxinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, gray, white
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeSouth America (e.g., Peru, Ecuador, Brazil)
Host PlantsCroton species
Flight PeriodYear-round
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae typically feed on Croton species, pupating into a camouflaged chrysalis before emerging as an adult.
Identification TipsThe most striking identification feature is the highly effective dead-leaf camouflage of the underside, characterized by its irregular shape, pointed forewing, and hindwing tail, along with the intricate mottled pattern.
Description
This butterfly exhibits remarkable dead-leaf mimicry on its underside, featuring a mottled pattern of browns, grays, and white speckles, a pointed forewing apex, and a short, pointed hindwing tail.
