Dione moneta, commonly known as the Mexican silverspot, is a small butterfly belonging to the subfamily Heliconiinae within the family Nymphalidae. This species is notable for its vibrant orange upperside, featuring brown wing bases and prominent thick, dark veins. The underside of the hindwings is brown, adorned with large silver spots that create a striking contrast. The wingspan ranges from 3 to 3.25 inches, making it a captivating sight in its natural habitat.
Dione moneta is primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions of Central and South America, including countries such as Costa Rica, Panama, and Colombia. The name "Dione" references the goddess associated with the moon in Greek mythology, while "moneta" is derived from the names of two Roman goddesses representing fortune and wealth, highlighting the butterfly's enchanting beauty. Additionally, the Mexican silverspot exhibits a unique "skipping" flight pattern, further adding to its charm and intrigue among butterfly enthusiasts and researchers.
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, at the same time, help collectors and enthusiasts contribute to understanding and treasuring those species.
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
Email us : Email us
We delivery safe with:
(Depending on your location)
Make your payments secure with:
Find us also in:
