True Cattleheart
Common NameTrue Cattleheart
Scientific NameParides iphidamas
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)80
Primary Colorsblack, blue, red
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America (from Mexico to Panama)
Host PlantsAristolochia species, pipevine
Flight PeriodYear-round
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed exclusively on toxic Aristolochia (pipevine) plants, sequestering the toxins to become unpalatable to predators throughout their life stages.
Identification TipsKey features include the iridescent blue-green scaling on the forewings and the distinct, bright red patches on the hindwings, all set against a deep black background.
Description
A striking black butterfly featuring iridescent blue-green patches on its forewings and prominent bright red patches on its hindwings.
