Introduction
The genus Larinopoda comprises of 7 species, all of which are white, with dark borders, and have one or more dark spots on the hindwings. All species have golden yellow legs, and the distinctive thin, upturned labial palpi that are typical of the subfamily Lipteninae.
Larinopoda aspidos is found in the Volta region of Ghana, and in Togo and Nigeria.
Lifecycle
The lifecycle is unknown, but in common with other Lipteninae the larvae probably feed on algae or microscopic fungi growing on tree trunks, and are likely to have a symbiotic relationship with ants.
Adult behaviour
This lovely little butterfly prefers to fly in hazy or slightly overcast conditions, at which time it can often be seen sitting on tendrils with extrafloral nectaries. In common with other members of the Lipteninae, at dusk the adults cluster together to roost overnight in groups of 3 or 4, suspended from thin dry twigs, normally at a height of less than a metre above ground level.