Wonder Brown
Common NameWonder Brown
Scientific NameMelanitis phedima
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Primary Colorsdark brown, creamy white
HabitatForest undergrowth, shaded areas, forest edges, bamboo thickets
Geographic RangeIndian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, East Asia
Host PlantsPoaceae (grasses), bamboo
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host grasses. Larvae are green with a rough texture, feeding on grasses and bamboo. Pupation occurs as a suspended chrysalis.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive broad creamy white band contrasting with the dark brown wings, the small white spots near the forewing apex, and the single prominent eyespot on the hindwing. Often found resting on leaf litter.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with dark brown wings featuring a prominent, broad creamy white band across both forewings and hindwings, along with small white apical spots on the forewing and a single orange-ringed eyespot on the hindwing.
