Sagaris Metalmark
Common NameSagaris Metalmark
Scientific NamePirascca sagaris
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsblack, orange, white
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America (Mexico south to Panama) and South America (Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical habitats
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are typically slug-like and may have myrmecophilous associations with ants, a common trait in the Riodininae subfamily.
Identification TipsKey features for identification are the broad, bright orange band contrasting sharply with the black wings, and the distinct small white spot at the tip of the forewing.
Description
A striking butterfly with velvety black wings adorned by a prominent, bright orange band extending across both forewings and hindwings, and a small white spot at the apex of each forewing.
