smooth-banded sister
Common Namesmooth-banded sister
Scientific NameAdelpha serpa
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyLimenitidinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Primary Colorsdark brown, orange, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico south to Brazil and Argentina)
Host PlantsPsychotria, Rubiaceae family plants
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates, more abundant during wet seasons
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are typically laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are often spiny and cryptically colored, feeding on the host foliage before pupating into a camouflaged chrysalis.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the broad, smooth white band across both wings and the bright orange patch on the forewing, contrasting with the dark brown background. The underside pattern is similar but often with more intricate markings.
Description
This butterfly has dark brown wings with a prominent, broad white band extending diagonally across both the forewings and hindwings, and a distinct orange patch on the forewing near the apex.
