Menelaus Morpho
Common NameMenelaus Morpho
Scientific NameMorpho menelaus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)125
Wing Patterniridescent
Primary Colorsblue, black
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest clearings, riverbanks
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana)
Host PlantsPaullinia, Machaerium
Flight PeriodYear-round
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are typically brown or green with spiny projections. Pupae are green and chrysalis-like, leading to the emergence of the adult butterfly.
Identification TipsThe intense, metallic blue coloration of the dorsal wings, especially when seen in flight, is highly distinctive. The dark brown/black wing margins help distinguish it from other Morpho species; the ventral side, though not visible here, is cryptic with eyespots.
Description
A large, striking butterfly characterized by its brilliant, iridescent blue dorsal wings, which are bordered by dark brown to black margins.
