Periander Metalmark
Common NamePeriander Metalmark
Scientific NameRhetus periander
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorsblue, black, orange, pink
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America (Mexico) to South America (Brazil, Argentina)
Host PlantsVarious trees and shrubs, possibly Miconia species
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva, pupa, adult. Larvae are typically cryptic and feed on host plants, often trees or shrubs.
Identification TipsLook for the vibrant iridescent blue on dark wings, combined with distinct orange and pink spots on the hindwings. Its metallic blue-green body and darting flight in tropical forest understory are also characteristic.
Description
A striking butterfly with iridescent electric blue patches on dark brown to black wings. The hindwings feature prominent orange patches and small pink spots near the tails.
