-Animals (Kingdom Animalia)

-Arthropods (Phylum Arthropoda)

-Hexapods (Subphylum Hexapoda)

-Insects (Class Insecta)

-Winged and Once-winged Insects (Subclass Pterygota)

-Butterflies and Moths (Order Lepidoptera)

-Butterflies (Superfamily Papilionoidea)

-Metalmark Butterflies (Family Riodinidae)

-True Metalmarks (Subfamily Riodininae)

-Tribe Riodinini

-Genus Melanis

-White-rayed Metalmark (Melanis cephise)

Melanis cephise, commonly known as the White-rayed Metalmark, is a butterfly in the family Riodinidae. It is easily recognized by its dark wings marked with narrow, radiating white streaks (“rays”), which give it a distinctive starburst-like appearance. This species is found in Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America, inhabiting forest edges, clearings, and brushy habitats. Adults are often seen flying low and slowly, frequently perching on or under leaves or near the ground.