themisto amberwing
Common Namethemisto amberwing
Scientific NameMechanitis themisto
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyDanainae
Wingspan (mm)60
Primary Colorsblack, yellow, orange, white
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America
Host PlantsSolanum species
Flight PeriodYear-round
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, typically Solanum species. The larvae feed on the leaves, and both the larvae and adults are aposematic, signaling their unpalatability.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive pattern of black wings with large, somewhat translucent yellow-orange patches and a row of small white spots along the outer margins of the hindwings.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with black wings featuring large, translucent yellow-orange patches and small white spots along the margins. Its body is black with yellow-tipped antennae.
