Acanthaceae-feeder
Guides
Mestra
Arizona Sister, Curve-winged Metalmark
Mestra is a genus of butterflies in the family Nymphalidae, subfamily Biblidinae, established by Jacob Hübner in 1825. The genus contains several species distributed primarily in the Americas, with the most well-known being Mestra amymone, commonly called the Arizona Sister or Curve-winged Metalmark. These butterflies are medium-sized with distinctive wing patterns and are associated with specific host plants in their larval stages. The genus name derives from Greek mythology, referencing Mestra, daughter of Erysichthon, who possessed the ability to change her shape at will.
Microtia elva
Elf, Elf Butterfly
Microtia elva, commonly known as the elf or elf butterfly, is a small butterfly species in the family Nymphalidae. It is the sole member of its genus, which is monophyletic and restricted to the southern United States and Central America. The species has been observed over 3,000 times on iNaturalist, indicating it is relatively well-documented within its range. Larvae feed on plants in the family Acanthaceae, particularly Tetramerium species.
Siproeta stelenes
Malachite
Siproeta stelenes, commonly known as the malachite, is a neotropical brush-footed butterfly in the family Nymphalidae. It is named for the mineral malachite due to the brilliant green or yellow-green coloration on the upperside of its wings. The species ranges from Brazil through Central America to Mexico, with populations also established in southern Florida, southern Texas, and several Caribbean islands. Adults are long-lived and feed on diverse carbohydrate sources including flower nectar, rotting fruit, and even carrion. Larvae feed on plants in the family Acanthaceae.