The Adelpha fessonia, commonly known as the band-celled sister, is a striking species of butterfly belonging to the Nymphalidae family. It is primarily found in Central America and parts of the southern United States, particularly in Texas. This butterfly is characterized by its distinctive wing pattern, featuring a deep brown or black background adorned with bold white and orange bands. These markings help it blend into its environment, providing camouflage against predators. The band-celled sister thrives in tropical and subtropical forests, where it is often seen fluttering along forest edges or basking in the dappled sunlight.
The Adelpha fessonia has a fascinating life cycle, beginning as a tiny egg laid on host plants such as hackberries (Celtis species). The caterpillars are known for their unique, spiky appearance, which deters predators. As they mature, they undergo metamorphosis into pupae, eventually emerging as vibrant adult butterflies. The adults primarily feed on nectar from flowers, as well as rotting fruit and tree sap. Their graceful flight patterns and territorial behavior make them a captivating sight in their natural habitat. Conservation efforts are crucial to maintaining their populations, as habitat destruction threatens their existence in some regions.
We firmly support sustainable tropical butterfly collections as long as they protect the rainforest where they fly and develop responsible, conscious trading.
This allows us to support local ranching farms with ethically sourced material and help at the same time collectors and enthusiasts to contribute to understanding and treasuring those species.
Please take into consideration that the specimen that you will receive may slightly differ in size, shape or colour from the picture shown as you are purchasing a natural product.
All our items are carefully delivered to prevent damages on transport, papered items are packaged in glassine envelopes specifying capture/breeding data and location available. CITES certificate will be provided in the specimens required.
HOW WE GRADE OUR LISTINGS (SPECIMENS)
As Insect specimens are natural products, some are bred and some others caught in wild, the quality can vary greatly.
The guide below explains the grading used for specimens in our listings.
A1 No visible imperfections, both antennas, no tearing, scratches or missing part of the wings (or as perfect as you could expect from wild caught specimens), with exception of some leg damage.
A1- Very minor damage, normally restricted to antenna damage or antennae attached separately in the envelope.
A- These specimens have minor damage, such as antenna damage, or minor flight wear such as small scratches, minor sale damage, some minor fraying/chipping around the edges of the wings.
A2 More significant damage, such as major flight wear, small rips, small pieces missing from the wings, damage to the thorax or abdomen.
B or Second Grade These specimens have similar damage to A2 specimens, but to a more significant degree. Usually used as parts replacement or art work material
| SPECIMEN | |
|---|---|
| Country | Mexico |
| Locality | Los Tuxtlas Veracruz |
| Collection type | Wild collected |
| Bio-zone | Neotropical |
We supply both rare and common species from all parts of the world.
• Entomology • Photography • Research • Trade • Home decor •
United States, United Kingdom and Mexico
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