Butterflies of
the Amazon and Andes
Banded Longwing
Dryadula
phaetusa
LINNAEUS,
1758
Family -
NYMPHALIDAE
subfamily -
HELICONIINAE
Tribe - HELICONIINI
Dryadula
phaetusa,
Rio Pindayo, Peru
Introduction
The Heliconiinae is
divided into 3 tribes Acraeini,
Argynnini
and Heliconiini.
The latter are colloquially known as Longwings
and are confined to the neotropical region. They are easily recognised
by their distinctive patterns, elongated forewings and characteristic
delicate fluttering flight.
The subtribe Heliconiini
includes
Heliconius
( 39 species ), and the smaller genera Dryas,
Podotricha,
Philaethria, Laparus, Eueides, Neruda, Agraulis,
Dione
and
Dryadula.
The latter is distinguished by its broader wings, shorter antennae and instantly
recognisable tiger striped pattern,
Dryadula phaetusa is
the sole member of its genus. It is a common and widespread species found from
Mexico to Brazil and Bolivia.
Habitats
This species occurs at elevations between 0-1000m.
It can be found in disturbed areas including forest clearings, pastures, riverbanks and
roadsides through rainforest or deciduous woodlands.
Lifecycle
The larva is dull purplish in colour and covered in short bristly spines. It
feeds on Passiflora.
Adult behaviour
Males have regular perching places,
typically settling on a log or tree stump near the forest edge,
and will return repeatedly to the same perch after being
disturbed. In early afternoon they patrol in search of females,
which they pursue until the latter settle on the ground, usually
beneath a bush or tree. The male flutters around the female in a
figure-of-eight movement before settling beside her.
If she is
receptive she remains motionless, and the male then half opens his
wings. He then flutters them very rapidly for a few seconds to
direct his pheromones towards her antennae, which has the effect
of placating her. The male then curves his abdomen around to make
contact and copulate.
Once joined he adjusts his position
so that the butterflies are facing away from each other.
Both sexes nectar at
Lantana and
Asclepias flowers.
Just before dusk the butterflies
settle under the leaves of bushes, where they spend the night.
This species in common with many other Heliconiines roosts
gregariously overnight.
Dryadula
phaetusa,
Rio Pindayo, Peru
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