Praepedaliodes phanias
Common NamePraepedaliodes phanias
Scientific NamePraepedaliodes phanias
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, tan
HabitatMontane cloud forests, high-altitude grasslands
Geographic RangeAndes of South America (Peru, Ecuador, Colombia)
Host Plantsgrasses (Poaceae)
Flight PeriodYear-round in suitable climates
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are believed to feed on grasses (Poaceae). Eggs are laid on host plants, and pupation occurs near the ground.
Identification TipsIdentified by its cryptic mottled brown underside coloration, which provides excellent camouflage in its montane forest habitat. The overall shape and subtle patterns are typical of the genus Praepedaliodes within the Satyrinae subfamily.
Description
Two butterflies with mottled brown, cryptic undersides are shown in a mating embrace on green foliage. Their wings are folded, revealing irregular patterns of dark and light brown, characteristic of forest-dwelling Satyrinae.
