Adelotypa annulifera, Rio Alto Madre de Dios, Peru – Tony Hoare
Introduction
The genus Adelotypa includes 29 currently recognised species, but is in the process of revision. It is likely that the illustrated taxon annulifera will ultimately be transferred to a newly erected genus which recognises differences between this and most other Adelotypa species.
Habitats
This species is found in primary rainforest at altitudes between about 400-700m.
Lifecycle
To be completed.
Adult behaviour
The butterfly illustrated is a female, and was photographed imbibing fluid from the surface of a leaf, in riparian forest on the Rio Alto Madre de Dios, Peru. There were several large ants in attendance, also imbibing the same fluid. The nature of the fluid is unknown, but may possibly be a secretion produced by aphids or other Homopterans. The fact that the Adelotypa is feeding unmolested suggests that the butterfly probably emits a chemical signal which appeases the ants. If this is the case it would tend to indicate that feeding on this fluid in the company of ants is a process that has evolved over millions of years, and may also indicate that the larvae and pupae of these butterflies live in association with ants.