Heliconius ismenus is a species of butterfly belonging to the Nymphalidae family, commonly found in the tropical and subtropical forests of Central and South America. It is known for its striking coloration, typically featuring black wings adorned with vibrant yellow bands, which serve as a warning to predators about its unpalatability. Like other members of the Heliconius genus, H. ismenus engages in Müllerian mimicry, resembling other toxic butterfly species to reinforce the visual signal of its toxicity. This adaptation helps deter predators, particularly birds, from attempting to consume them.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Heliconius ismenus is its unique feeding and reproductive behavior. Unlike most butterflies, it consumes pollen in addition to nectar, allowing it to live significantly longer than species that rely solely on nectar for sustenance. The ingestion of pollen provides essential amino acids that enhance reproduction and longevity. Furthermore, H. ismenus exhibits complex social interactions, including communal roosting, where individuals gather in groups during the night for protection. These behaviors contribute to its ecological success, making it an important part of the biodiversity in the regions where it is found.
We firmly support the sustainable tropical butterfly collections as long as they take care of conserving the rainforest where they fly and developing 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 consider that the specimen 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.
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United States, United Kingdom and Mexico
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