Introduction
Almost all neotropical Theclinae species are placed in the Eumaeini. The tribe is not particularly well represented in collections, so until fairly recently a high percentage remained unstudied, and were inappropriately filed away in the ‘convenience’ genus Thecla. Many taxonomists have attempted to rationalise the systematics of the Eumaeini, the most recent being Robbins who published a revision in 2004, reclassifying the taxa into 83 genera. Currently there are 1058 known species.
Taking into account their small size, secretive behaviour, and the great similarities between many species, it is estimated that about another 200 species probably remain to be discovered.
The history of the genus Rhamma is rather interesting. In 1992 Johnson decided to reclassify 27 of the neotropical Thecla species, moving them to a new genus which he called Shapiroana. Later the same year he renamed several of the species in that genus. Even more oddly he also renamed the genus itself several times, so that during the course of 1992 the illustrated butterfly had its genus changed from Thecla to Shapiroana to Pontirama, then Paralustrus and then finally to Rhamma!
Rhamma familiaris is found in Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia.
Habitats
This species inhabits rainforest at altitudes between about 400-1200m.
Lifecycle
Unknown.
Adult behaviour
To be completed.