Diet

• The caterpillars feed on plants in the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae).

• Adults feed primarily on rotting fruit and dung rather than relying heavily on flower nectar.

Range

• Memphis pithyusa ranges from Mexico through Central America to Colombia.

• In Mexico it occurs in tropical forest regions, including Guerrero, and it is found in the Zihua area.

• The species was originally described from Mexico, with the type locality at Potrero in Veracruz.

Habitat

• The Pale-spotted Leafwing inhabits tropical and subtropical forest, woodland and forest edges.

• It is particularly associated with relatively open forest and areas containing its Croton host plants.

• Adults often perch on tree trunks and foliage, where their cryptic underside makes them difficult to notice. Males may establish perches while waiting for females.

Description

• Memphis pithyusa has a wingspan of approximately 57–76 mm.

• The upper surface is dark brown to dark blue, with a paler basal area and contrasting blue or blue-green colouring toward the outer portions of the wings.

• The forewings have several pale blue to whitish spots, while the hindwings have a distinct tail.

• The wing margins are less deeply scalloped than in several closely related Memphis, giving M. pithyusa a somewhat less strongly angular appearance.