Northern Tropical Buckeye
Common NameNorthern Tropical Buckeye
Scientific NameJunonia genoveva
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, black, cream
HabitatOpen fields, pastures, roadsides, disturbed areas, gardens, forest edges
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (Florida, Texas), Mexico, Central America, South America, Caribbean
Host PlantsPlantago spp. (plantain), Antirrhinum spp. (snapdragon), Ruellia spp., Phyla nodiflora (frogfruit)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; multiple broods in warmer climates
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Caterpillars are spiny, typically dark with lighter markings, and feed on various herbaceous plants. Pupae are chrysalides, often camouflaged.
Identification TipsKey features include the two large, distinct eyespots on the forewings and two on the hindwings, often with iridescent blue centers. The overall brown coloration with contrasting orange and cream banding on the upperside is also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a rich brown upperside, characterized by prominent, ringed eyespots on both forewings and hindwings, bordered by striking orange and cream bands.
