Anartia species
There are 5 Anartia species , the most widespread are amathea ,and jatrophae. The others are fatima (Central America), lyrtea ( Haiti) and chrysopelea (Cuba).
They are related to the Junonia and Precis (Oriental-Afro equivalent) ,which all like sunny open areas in woodland.
Anartia amathea
Anartia amathea
Red peacock (coolie)
Red peacock (coolie)
Peru
W 45mm
A1 £ 3.50
A1 £ 3.50
Anartia amathea verso
Anartia amathea verso
This colourful butterfly has a range from Chile to Colombia, there are no subspecies because there are no isolated populations.
Anartia jatrophae
Anartia jatrophae
White peacock
White peacock
Peru
W 40mm
A1 £ 3
A1 £ 3
Anartia jatrophae verso
Anartia jatrophae verso
This has a range from Argentina to the southern states of the USA.
The males are very territorial with a patch about 15m in diameter which includes the plants that the larva feed on (Bacopa, Blechum, Ruellia and Phyla species .)
When first emerged they have a lovely mother of pearl appearance which fades over time