Widespread Eighty-eight
Common NameWidespread Eighty-eight
Scientific NameDiaethria clymena
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyBiblidinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorscream, black, red
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings, gardens
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico south to Argentina)
Host PlantsSerjania, Paullinia
Flight PeriodYear-round
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: eggs laid on host plants, larvae (caterpillars) feed on leaves, pupate into a chrysalis, and emerge as adult butterflies.
Identification TipsThe most striking identification feature is the '88' or '89' pattern on the underside of the hindwings. The bright red band on the underside of the forewing is also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a distinctive pattern on the underside of its hindwings resembling the number '88' or '89' in black on a cream background, complemented by a bright red band on the forewing underside.
