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Butterflies of
the Amazon and Andes
Theodora Metalmark
Chalodeta theodora
FELDER & FELDER, 1862
Family -
RIODINIDAE
subfamily -
RIODININAE
Tribe - RIODININI
Chalodeta theodora Satipo, Peru
Introduction
The genus
Chalodeta comprises of 8 described
species found variously from Mexico to Bolivia. The butterflies
are closely allied to Charis, but
differ from them in venation and early stage morphology. The eyes
of Chalodeta also differ in that they
have tiny setae located between the ommatidia.
Males of Chalodeta theodora, like
many species in this genus, have a blackish ground colour, while
in the females this is replaced by a lighter shade of brown. The
metallic silvery bands on the wings of males appear bluish or
greenish in certain lighting conditions. In females the bands are
much narrower.
Chalodeta theodora is found in Colombia, Venezuela,
Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, Bolivia and Paraguay.
Habitats
This species appears to be confined to primary rainforest east of
the Andes, at altitudes between about 200-1000 metres. It is
commonly seen in light gaps in the forest, but can also be found
in forest edge habitats and glades.
Lifecycle
The larvae feed on the flowers of Melastomataceae.
Adult behaviour
Both sexes of this pretty species usually bask with their wings
fully outspread, but in very hot conditions they are held only
half open. Males can often be found imbibing mineralised moisture from
sand or rocks.
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