Diet

• The species belongs to the metalmark family (Riodinidae), and its close relatives are generally associated with woody tropical plants.

• Adults are likely to obtain nutrients from nectar and other plant-derived resources, but detailed observations of feeding behaviour are limited.

Range

• Hypophylla zeurippa occurs from western and southern Mexico through Central America to Nicaragua and possibly farther south.

• It occurs in the Zihua area, where tropical woodland provides suitable habitat. The Guerrero population is notable for having somewhat more extensive blue on the male forewings and a broader yellow forewing band in females than some other populations.

Habitat

• Hypophylla zeurippa is primarily associated with tropical lowland forest, particularly humid and very humid forest.

• Adults tend to occupy shaded woodland and forest edges rather than exposed, open habitats.

• They frequently perch on the upper surfaces of leaves, particularly in elevated positions, and may return to the same perch after being disturbed.

Description

• This is a medium-sized metalmark with a wingspan of approximately 40–50 mm.

• Males have dark brown to blackish wings with a striking metallic blue area on the forewings. A warm orange to yellowish band crosses the wings, while the hindwings have contrasting orange or reddish markings.

• Females are generally browner and less strongly blue than males. They have a narrow yellowish subapical band on the forewing and a characteristic row of pale spots on the underside of the hindwing.