Butterflies of
the Amazon and Andes
Variable Emesis
Emesis mandana
CRAMER, 1780
Family - RIODINIDAE
subfamily -
RIODININAE
Tribe -
Incertae sedis
introduction
|
habitats |
lifecycle |
adult behaviour
Emesis mandana, male, Rio Madre de
Dios,
Peru
Introduction
The
distinctive wing pattern and shape of
Emesis
make them instantly recognisable as a genus, but some of the 41 species can be
difficult to tell apart,
requiring close examination
of the markings.
Emesis
mandana, in common
with several other Emesis
species is quite variable in colour, ranging from dull reddish to bright
orange-yellow. The markings also appear to vary somewhat in intensity from one
specimen to another.
The
butterfly is common and widespread throughout much of central and South America.
Emesis mandana Peru
( image © Tony Hoare )
Habitats
This species apparently occurs in primary and secondary forest habitats at
altitudes between sea level and at least 2000m, but is most frequently
encountered below 800m.
Lifecycle
To be completed.
Adult behaviour
Males are often seen imbibing
moisture from unmetalled forest
roads, trails, sandbanks, dry river beds and other rocky or sandy
habitats. When feeding they usually hold the wings outspread, and
often dip their antennae, presumably to "taste" the substrate.
Females are seen
less frequently as they spend most of their time within the
forest, but can sometimes be seen basking on low foliage along
forest trails.
Emesis mandana, male, Satipo,
Peru
Emesis mandana, male, Satipo,
Peru
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