Diet

• Caterpillars feed primarily on woody plants, especially species in the legume family (Fabaceae).

Range

• Prepona laertes is broadly distributed from Mexico through Central and South America.

• The subspecies P. l. octavia is the form occurring in western and southern Mexico and extends southward through Central America into western South America.

• It occurs in Guerrero, with specimens known from the Chilpancingo and Acapulco areas, and is found in the Zihua area.

  Habitat

• It inhabits tropical and subtropical forest, particularly mature tropical dry forest and humid woodland.

• Adults are often associated with forest edges, clearings, trails and areas where fermenting fruit or tree sap is available.

• In the Zihua area, it is most likely in forested areas and along shaded forest margins rather than completely open habitats.

Description

• A large, powerful butterfly in the family Nymphalidae, subfamily Charaxinae, with a wingspan generally around 75–90 mm.

• The upper surface is predominantly dark brown to black, crossed by brilliant iridescent blue-green bands. The intensity and colour of these bands vary geographically and between individuals.

• The hindwings are rounded and bear a series of small tails or projections along the outer margin.

• The underside is cryptically patterned in shades of brown, grey and tan, with prominent rounded eyespots and irregular markings that resemble dead foliage.