Hobbies And Interests
Temenis
The Temenis genus is similar to the Nica and Epiphile genera. Typically, Temenis laothoe butterflies are a vibrant orange color, while a small percentage have deep blue on parts of their wings. These butterflies usually live between sea level and 1,600 meters, taking shelter within leaves, logs and tree stumps. When the butterfly is at rest, it will sit with its wings three-quarters open and take in the sun.
Caria
The Caria genus consists of 14 different species, most of which are very common butterflies in the Amazon. However, seeing one in flight is a rather uncommon sight, as they exhibit some of the most clandestine behavior on earth. Scientists aren't sure where these butterflies spend their time, but it is probably somewhere under shade. People most often observe them on hot mornings, when they drink from sandbanks or at beaches along rivers. Members of the Caria genus are also marked by very fast flight patterns that are nearly impossible to follow with the human eye. Their iridescent bodies reflect light beautifully and make for a remarkable, if only brief, spectacle.
Rhetus
Rhetus periander, also called Blue Doctor, is a common butterfly throughout the Amazon and can be found in Peru, Costa Rica and Argentina. They prefer elevations between sea level and 1,700 meters. These predominantly blue and black butterflies are attracted to the Eupatorium flower; rarely have observers seen them interested in other plants or flowers. When not feeding, the Rhetus periander usually sits on bushes and foliage.
Adelpha
The Adelpha genus consists of more than 85 known species of butterflies, all of which live in neotropical regions and are most commonly found in the southern Amazon. They have an unusual pattern of marbled specks and bands of either orange or white across their wings. These butterflies live in low-elevation areas, generally between sea level and 1,200 meters. They most often travel in groups of two or three.
Marpesia
Marpesia is a genus with 17 known species of butterflies, all of which live in neotropical areas. Many of the species have long tails; observers often see them in mud along the banks of rivers throughout the Amazon. They have straight antennae, which is how they are most easily distinguished from the similar swallowtail (Papilionidae) butterflies. Marpesias are often a vibrant orange when mature and have a distinctive wing shape that bells at the top.