Spear-winged Cattleheart
Common NameSpear-winged Cattleheart
Scientific NameParides aeneas
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, red, blue
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral and South America (e.g., Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana)
Host PlantsAristolochia species
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on toxic Aristolochia plants, accumulating toxins that make them and the adult butterflies unpalatable to predators (aposematism). Pupae are typically cryptic.
Identification TipsKey features include the overall black coloration, the distinct iridescent blue-green patches on the forewings, and the bright red patches on the hindwings. The forewings often have a somewhat pointed or 'spear-like' apex.
Description
A striking black butterfly with iridescent blue-green patches on the forewings and vibrant red patches on the hindwings, often with a somewhat elongated forewing shape.
