Wallace's Longwing
Common NameWallace's Longwing
Scientific NameHeliconius wallacei
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, white
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeSouth America (Amazon basin, Guianas)
Host PlantsPassiflora vitifolia, Passiflora quadrangularis
Flight PeriodYear-round
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are spiny and feed on various species of passionflower vines. Adults are known for their unique ability to digest pollen, which provides protein and significantly extends their lifespan.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive black and white bar pattern on elongated wings, characteristic of the Heliconius genus, and its slow, deliberate flight within the forest understory.
Description
This butterfly has long, narrow black wings with prominent white or cream-colored bars across both the forewings and hindwings.
