Introduction
The genus Rapala comprises of about 30 species found variously in India, Thailand, Tibet, Siberia, China, Japan, Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, Sulawesi and Java.
The butterflies are popularly known as Flashes because of their rapid flight and the reflective blue or orange areas on their upper wings. The undersides of most species have prominent post median bands and dark bars at the end of the discal cells, and a patch of blue scales and black spot next to the short filamentous tail.
Rapala manea is one of the most widely distributed species, being found in India, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, China, Malaysia and Sumatra.
Habitats
This species inhabits rainforest and humid deciduous forest at elevations up to about 800m.
Lifecycle
To be completed.
Adult behaviour
Males are usually encountered singly, perching on foliage in dappled sunlight. Both sexes normally rest with their wings held erect, but will sometimes bask on foliage early on sunny mornings.