Mimic Phantom

Scientific Name
Pseudohaetera mimica
ROSENBERG & TALBOT, 1914
Specie in
Family
Mimic Phantom
Pseudohaetyera mimica, Tatama NP, Colombia – Adrian Hoskins

Introduction

The tribe Haeterini is confined exclusively to the neotropical region. All members of this tribe are elusive crepuscular butterflies which spend their lives skulking deep in the undergrowth. There are 5 genera – Pierella, Pseudohaetera, Cithaerias, Dulcedo and Haetera. All butterflies in the latter 4 genera have rounded transparent wings, with small ocelli at the apex of the hindwings.

The genus Pseudohaetera comprises of 2 species – mimica and hypaesia.

Pseudohaetera mimica is endemic to Colombia.

Habitats

This species, in common with all members of the Haeterini, is found only in deeply shaded areas of forest. It occurs at elevations between about 1400-2000m.

Pseudohaetyera mimica, Tatama NP, Colombia - Adrian Hoskins
Pseudohaetyera mimica, Tatama NP, Colombia – Adrian Hoskins

Adult behaviour

The adults are usually encountered singly although they are not uncommon. They are found in dark and damp parts of the forest, and are semi-crepuscular in nature. They tend to remain deep in the undergrowth, but emerge at dusk to feed on fluids exuding from decomposing fungi. They remain stationary for long periods, but are easily put up, and if disturbed retreat into the undergrowth.

Pseudohaetyera mimica, Tatama NP, Colombia - Adrian Hoskins
Pseudohaetyera mimica, Tatama NP, Colombia – Adrian Hoskins

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Butterfly of
Scientific Name
Pseudohaetera mimica
by
ROSENBERG & TALBOT, 1914
Family
SubFamily
SATYRINAE
Tribe
HAETERINI
SubTribe
N/A

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