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Butterflies of
the Amazon and Andes
Manu Oressinoma
Oressinoma sorata
SALVIN
& GODMAN, 1868
Family -
NYMPHALIDAE
subfamily -
SATYRINAE
Tribe - SATYRINI
subtribe -
EUPTYCHIINA
Oressinoma
sorata, Machu Picchu, Peru
Introduction
The
genus
Oressinoma is classified, perhaps wrongly (
as the venation has unique characteristics ) under the same subtribe as the
Euptychiine ringlets and
Taygetis
deadleafs. As well as differences in venation, the wing shape and lack of ocelli
point to the need for taxonomic revision.
The two species are
typhla,
found from Costa Rica to Bolivia, and
sorata,
found only in southern Peru and Bolivia. The latter differs in having the white
zone on the wings narrower, more clearly delineated, and more rectangular in profile.
Habitats
Oressinoma sorata is
localised in distribution, occurring near streams, or in association with swampy
areas where the larval foodplants grow. It is
generally found at higher elevation, circa 2000-2800 metres, and is restricted
to southern Peru and Bolivia.
Oressinoma
sorata, Manu cloudforest, 2600m, Peru
Lifecycle
The eggs
are pale shining green, spherical, and laid singly on
the foodplant.
The fully grown
larvae are
green, with a rough texture, with dark green longitudinal
lines along the back and sides. They feed nocturnally on
Cyperus
( Cyperaceae ).
Adult behaviour
The butterflies are usually encountered singly, or in two's and
three's. They are active only in cloudy weather or weak hazy
sunlight. Males perch on sedges or ferns, often for long periods, but
remain alert at all times. If disturbed they dart up rapidly, but
then lazily descend to resettle on foliage a short distance away.
Both sexes feed at rotting fruit, decomposing fungi and dung.
Courtship takes place in late
morning. The perching male flies up to intercept a passing female,
hovering above her ( probably while disseminating pheromones )
until she settles. At this point the pair face each-other, and the
male leans forward to press his antennae against hers, while
vibrating his wings. If receptive, the female allows him to
manoeuvre alongside her to copulate.
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