Scarce Morpho
Common NameScarce Morpho
Scientific NameMorpho amathonte
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyMorphinae
Wingspan (mm)85
Primary Colorsdark brown, black, yellow, light blue
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges
Geographic RangeCentral America (Costa Rica, Panama) and northwestern South America (Colombia, Ecuador)
Host PlantsInga spp.
Flight PeriodYear-round
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are typically spiny and feed on leaves, while pupae are often green and smooth, hanging upside down.
Identification TipsKey features include its large size, the distinctive pattern of multiple yellow-ringed black eyespots on the dark brown underside, and the iridescent blue upperside (not visible in this image).
Description
The Scarce Morpho's underside is dark brown with a series of prominent yellow-ringed black eyespots and intricate light blue and white patterns, providing camouflage when at rest.
