Pithy Sister
Common NamePithy Sister
Scientific NameAdelpha iphiclus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyLimenitidinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico south to Brazil and Argentina)
Host PlantsPsychotria, Sapindaceae species
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are typically green or brown with spiny projections, developing into a chrysalis for pupation.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include the broad white diagonal band, the specific orange patch on the forewing apex, and the pair of orange-and-black ocelli on the hindwing tornus.
Description
This butterfly has dark brown wings with a prominent, broad white band extending diagonally across both forewings and hindwings. The forewing also features a distinct orange patch near the apex, and the hindwing tornus displays two orange spots with black centers.
