Rayed Purplewing
Common NameRayed Purplewing
Scientific NameEunica sophronia
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyBiblidinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Primary Colorsbrown, white, grey, black, blue, purple
HabitatTropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico, Central America, South America (south to Brazil)
Host PlantsSapium
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult. Larvae feed on specific host plants, primarily in the genus Sapium.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive underside pattern with multiple prominent eyespots (ocelli) on both forewings and hindwings, combined with the overall brown, white, and grey mottling. The upperside, if seen, is iridescent purple.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a complex underside pattern of brown, white, and grey patches, featuring prominent eyespots with blue centers. The upperside, not visible in the image, is typically iridescent purple.
