Morphos and Owl Butterflies (Morphinae) |
The Morphinae are a subfamily of the Nymphalidae and includes 23-24 genera, and ca. 250 species, such as the morphos (Morpho spp.), the owl butterflies (Caligo spp.), and related species found in the New World’s tropics (from Mexico to Peru and southern Brazil). They are found in tropical forests, often near streams and trails; from sea level to 1,400 m. This subfamily includes the largest of Neotropical butterflies, with wingspan up to 20 cm. Upper wings are usually iridescent blue, but underwings drab and patterned, adding to camouflage while at rest. Many species feed on rotting fruit.
Dark Owl-Butterfly (Caligo brasiliensis) |
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Idomeneus Owl-Butterfly (Caligo idomeneus) |
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Common Morpho (Morpho helenor) |
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