Red-striped Leafwing
Common NameRed-striped Leafwing
Scientific NameSiderone galanthis
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyCharaxinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, reddish-brown, grey, iridescent
HabitatTropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico south to Brazil and Argentina)
Host PlantsCasearia species (e.g., Casearia sylvestris)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are typically spiny with head capsules bearing horn-like projections. Pupae are often camouflaged, resembling a dead leaf or twig.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the highly irregular, leaf-like wing shape and mottled brown underside. When wings are open (not shown), the upperside is black with a prominent, broad red or orange stripe across both forewings and hindwings.
Description
This butterfly displays a remarkable cryptic underside, mimicking a dead leaf with its irregular wing shape and mottled reddish-brown, grey, and dark brown coloration, accented by subtle iridescent hues.
