Diet

• Caterpillars feed primarily on hackberry trees and shrubs (Celtis spp.) in the elm family (Ulmaceae).

• Eggs are laid singly on young growth, and the caterpillars often rest on the upper surfaces of leaves, where their shape and coloration provide camouflage.

• Adults are unusual among butterflies in that they feed extensively on rotting fruit, tree sap, dung, and carrion, rather than relying primarily on flower nectar.

Range

• The Silver Emperor occurs from Mexico through Central America and southward into tropical South America, reaching Brazil.

• It occurs in Guerrero and is within its normal range around the Zihua area, particularly where suitable Celtis trees and warm wooded habitat occur.

Habitat

• It favours subtropical and tropical woodland, especially forest edges, clearings, river margins, and other areas where Celtis trees grow.

• Adults are often attracted to fermenting fruit, sap flows, and animal dung, making fruiting trees and shaded woodland particularly productive places to look.

• Despite its striking appearance, it can be difficult to spot when perched because the closed-wing underside blends well with bark and foliage.

Description

• A large, powerful butterfly with a wingspan of approximately 70–82 mm.

• The male has a dark brown to nearly black upper surface with a subtle blue-violet iridescence. A broad white median band crosses the hindwing, while the corresponding forewing area is largely orange.

• The female is less iridescent and has a more extensive white median band across both wings, with a yellowish spot toward the leading edge of the hindwing.

• Both sexes have strongly scalloped wing margins and a distinctive silvery-gray underside, particularly on the hindwings.

• The male's brilliant blue sheen can appear almost metallic when sunlight strikes the wings at the correct angle, but it can disappear almost completely when viewed from another direction.