Soldier Commodore
Common NameSoldier Commodore
Scientific NameJunonia terea
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Primary Colorsorange, dark brown, black
HabitatTropical forests, forest edges, clearings, open woodlands, gardens
Geographic RangeSub-Saharan Africa
Host PlantsAsystasia, Barleria, Phaulopsis, Ruellia
Flight PeriodYear-round (especially wet seasons)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: eggs are laid on host plants, larvae (caterpillars) feed on leaves, pupate into a chrysalis, and emerge as adult butterflies.
Identification TipsKey features include the striking contrast between the bright orange central wing areas and the broad dark brown/black borders, along with the wavy dark lines across the wings and small, subtle eyespots on the hindwings.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with vibrant orange central wing areas broadly bordered by dark brown to black margins. The wings feature intricate dark wavy lines and small, often indistinct, eyespots on the hindwings.
