Hamadryas amphinome
(Linnaeus, 1767)
Red Cracker
Hamadryas amphinome, commonly known as the red cracker, is a cracker in the Nymphalidae native to the Americas. The is recognized for the distinctive cracking sound males produce by clapping their wings together during territorial displays. Larvae feed specifically on Dalechampia scandens. Multiple occur across its broad Neotropical range, with Hamadryas amphinome mexicana being particularly abundant on the Pacific slope of Rica.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Hamadryas amphinome: /ˌhæməˈdraɪəs æmˈfɪnəmi/
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Identification
As a member of the cracker Hamadryas, this can be distinguished by the characteristic sound-producing of males—audible wing clapping used in territorial interactions. The specific epithet amphinome and the "red cracker" suggest reddish coloration patterns, though precise diagnostic wing patterns separating it from such as Hamadryas februa or Hamadryas guatemalena are not documented in available sources.
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Distribution
Ranges from Mexico through the Caribbean and Central America to the Amazon basin, including Brazil, Colombia, the Guianas, Peru, and Bolivia, extending south into Argentina. Hamadryas amphinome mexicana is most abundant on the Pacific slope of Rica.
Diet
Larvae feed on Dalechampia scandens. feeding habits are not documented in available sources.
Host Associations
- Dalechampia scandens - larval plantLarval food source
Behavior
Males produce a cracking sound by clapping their wings together, a territorial display characteristic of the Hamadryas.
Similar Taxa
- Hamadryas februaCongeneric cracker with similar wing-clapping territorial ; precise distinguishing features require examination of wing pattern details not available in sources.
- Hamadryas guatemalenaCongeneric cracker sharing sound-producing male ; differentiation relies on subtle wing pattern differences not specified in available literature.
More Details
Subspecies
Recognized include: H. a. amphinome (Colombia, Bolivia, Brazil); H. a. fumosa (Colombia); H. a. mazai (Mexico); and H. a. mexicana (Mexico to Colombia, with Rican most abundant on the Pacific slope).