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

This colourful butterfly has a range from Chile to Colombia, there are no subspecies because there are no isolated populations.

Anartia jatrophae

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