orange-washed sister
Common Nameorange-washed sister
Scientific NameAdelpha iphiclus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyLimenitidinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Primary Colorsblack, orange, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico to Central America and northern South America (e.g., Brazil, Peru, Ecuador)
Host PlantsPsychotria, Rubiaceae, Melastomataceae, Sapindaceae
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Caterpillars are often cryptic, feeding on foliage, and pupate into a camouflaged chrysalis.
Identification TipsKey features include the dark base color, the large, vibrant orange patch on the forewing, and the distinct, straight white diagonal band that crosses both wings.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with dark brown to black wings, featuring a prominent bright orange patch on the forewing apex and a broad, diagonal white band extending across both the forewing and hindwing.
