Crocozona pheretima Santa Fe de Antioquoia, Colombia – Adrian Hoskins
Introduction
There are more than 1150 species of Riodinidae in the neotropical region, but far fewer elsewhere in the world. Many Riodinids have bands of red or orange, or are peppered with metallic silver, blue or green scales, hence the popular name of metalmarks.
The genus Crocozona comprises of 4 species. Two of these, fasciata and pheretima are marked with broad orange bands on the forewings only. The others – coecias and croceifasciata, have narrower bands on both fore and hindwings.
Crocozona pheretima is endemic to Colombia.
Habitats
This species occurs in disturbed rainforest habitats at elevations between about 200- 1000m. It is typically seen along roadsides, riverbanks, wide forest tracks and other semi-open habitats.
Lifecycle
To be completed.
Adult behaviour
This sun-loving little Riodinid can often be found in two’s and three’s basking on ferns or other low foliage in open, forested habitats. It has a rapid twisting flight that is difficult to follow, but it usually resettles only a short distance from it’s original position.
In very hot weather, or when there is a threat of rain, the butterflies hide beneath the leaves of bushes or low growing herbage, with wings outspread.