Historis acheronta (Fabricius, 1775)
Common Name:
Dashwing
Dashwing
Synonyms:
Papilio acheronta (Fabricius, 1775)
Natural History:
In the Neotropics there are two species described within the genus Historis. Both occur in the Amazon, however Historis acheronta is more frequent and more abundant. A population explosion was recorded in 2005 in the central Amazon. Their abundance is highest in the months of lower rainfall.
These butterflies are strong body, imposing and aggressive flight. Inhabit primary forests and secondary forests, and may occur in the understory and canopy but occur predominantly in the canopy.
Distribution:
Brasil; Cuba; Jamaica; Suriname
Brasil; Cuba; Jamaica; Suriname
Occurence Period:
occurs in every month, most abundant in the months of lowest rainfall
Feeding Adult:
Adults of this species were observed feeding on rotting fruit, human excreta and animal excreta.
Feeding Caterpillars:
The caterpillars feed on Cecropiaceae: Cecropia sp.
Color:
brown, orange
brown, orange
Habitat:
forest, forest edge
forest, forest edge