Orange-banded Metalmark
Common NameOrange-banded Metalmark
Scientific NameRiodina lycis
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, orange, white
HabitatTropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico to Brazil and Peru)
Host PlantsVarious tropical broadleaf plants
Flight PeriodThroughout the year in tropical habitats
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: eggs laid on host plants, larvae (caterpillars) feed on leaves, pupate into a chrysalis, and emerge as adult butterflies.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its distinctive black wings with bold, straight orange bands crossing both sets of wings, and the small white markings at the apex of the forewings.
Description
A striking butterfly with velvety black wings adorned with prominent, bright orange bands that run across both the forewings and hindwings. The forewings also feature small white tips.
