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protected by Copyright © Adrian Hoskins
2007, and must not be published
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Butterflies of
the Amazon rainforest
Molochina Underleaf
Eurybia molochina
STICHEL, 1910
Family - RIODINIDAE
subfamily -
RIODININAE
Tribe - EURYBIINI
introduction
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habitats |
lifecycle |
adult behaviour
Text and photographs protected by Copyright © Adrian
Hoskins 2007-2008, and must not be reproduced or published in part
or in whole elsewhere in any form without written permission from
Adrian Hoskins. Breach of copyright will be pursued by litigation.
Website designed, produced and owned by
Adrian Hoskins
Eurybia species, probably
molochina, Madre de Dios, Peru
Introduction
The
Eurybia
Underleafs are a fascinating group of about 20 species, which occur from
Nicaragua and Honduras to southern Peru and Bolivia. Many are extremely similar
in appearance, and the classification and distribution of the species is poorly
understood. It is possible therefore that the illustrated species may have been
mis-identified.
The
underside pattern is repeated on the upperside, but the ground colour of the
upper surface is darker, often has an iridescent bluish or purplish sheen, and
the white spots and yellow-ringed blue ocelli stand out in much greater
contrast.
Habitats
This species, and others of the genus, occur in primary rainforest at elevations
between sea level and about 1000m. They are never seen in open sunlit areas,
instead preferring the darkness of the forest understorey.
Lifecycle
To be completed.
Adult behaviour
The butterflies are very secretive by nature, spending very long periods resting under the leaves of low growing vegetation, always with wings spread open, and invariably, almost cheekily, peering out to keep a watchful eye on human intruders.
Periodically they fly out to investigate other butterflies, but instantly return to settle under another nearby leaf. The speed of flight is remarkable, and the degree of agility apparent when they fly into the vegetation, flip upside-down and settle under a leaf is quite amazing to behold.
All Eurybia species have extremely long proboscises ( tongues ) which are adapted to enable them to nectar at the deep flowers of orange Heliconia plants. The easiest way to observe the butterflies is to find an isolated Heliconia growing in the forest, and to station oneself nearby and await the arrival of the butterfly.
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