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Butterflies of Zihuatanejo

SUPERFAMILY PAPILIONOIDEA

Pacific Mangrove Buckeye

Junonia pacoma

Junonia pacoma, commonly known as the Pacific Mangrove Buckeye, is a medium-sized butterfly in the family Nymphalidae. It is part of the buckeye group, well known for their prominent eyespots (ocelli) on the wings. The upper side of the wings is typically brown to orange-brown, marked with bold eyespots ringed in black, blue, and yellow, which function to deter predators by mimicking the eyes of larger animals. The pattern can be quite striking when the butterfly is basking with wings open. The underside is more subdued, usually brown and mottled, providing camouflage when the butterfly rests with wings closed. This species is found along the Pacific coast of Mexico and Central America, especially in mangrove habitats, coastal areas, and open lowland environments. Adults are often seen perching on the ground or low vegetation, frequently basking in the sun and making short, quick flights.

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