Mesentina Sister
Common NameMesentina Sister
Scientific NameAdelpha mesentina
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyLimenitidinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsorange, black, brown
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico to Brazil)
Host PlantsRubiaceae, Caprifoliaceae
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLike all butterflies, Adelpha mesentina undergoes complete metamorphosis, starting as an egg, developing into a larva (caterpillar) that feeds on host plants, then pupating into a chrysalis before emerging as an adult butterfly.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the broad, bright orange band on the forewings contrasting with the dark ground color, and the typical 'sister' butterfly flight pattern of rapid darting and gliding.
Description
This butterfly has dark brown to black wings with a prominent, broad orange band extending across the forewings. The hindwings feature a more subtle striped pattern, especially visible on the underside.
