Waiter Daggerwing
Common NameWaiter Daggerwing
Scientific NameMarpesia zerynthia
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyCyrestinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorspurple, black, reddish-brown
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico to Brazil (Central and South America)
Host PlantsFicus
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple broods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: eggs laid on host plants, larvae feed on leaves, pupate into a chrysalis, and emerge as adult butterflies.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its deep purplish-black wings with iridescent purple bands and the very long, pointed 'dagger-like' tails on the hindwings.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with striking deep purplish-black wings, iridescent purple bands, and prominent long, pointed tails on the hindwings.
