Starry Night Metalmark
Common NameStarry Night Metalmark
Scientific NameRiodina lycisca
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, white
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico to Brazil)
Host PlantsVarious tropical plants
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult). Larvae feed on host plants, and pupae are typically camouflaged.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its distinctive black wings with a dense scattering of small white spots, resembling stars. Its small size and typical metalmark flight are also characteristic.
Description
A small butterfly with dark, almost black wings densely covered in numerous small, bright white spots, creating a 'starry night' effect.
