Introduction
The genus Hypocysta comprises of 12 species, found variously in Australia and New Guinea. Most Hypocysta species have elongated wings, and are dark brown on the upperside, with large orange or white patches. The hindwings usually have prominent ocelli.
Hypocysta irius is found in south Queensland and New South Wales.
Habitats
This species inhabits grassy places including forest clearings, at elevations up to about 1500m.
Lifecycle
The eggs are smooth, globular and yellow in colour. They are laid singly in on various grasses such asa Cynodon and Imperata ( Poaceae ). The plump larvae exist in two morphs – either bright green or dark brown. Both forms have numerous faint thin dorsal and lateral stripes, and black heads with long white-tipped horns. The pupa is pale brown, lightly mottled with darker brown. It is suspended from a stem, and looks very much like a curled dead leaf.
Adult behaviour
The butterflies rarely visit flowers, and are more often seen resting or basking on grasses or low herbage.