Marpesia harmonia, commonly known as the pale daggerwing, is a striking species of butterfly in the family Nymphalidae. It is characterized by its elongated hindwings which resemble the shape of a dagger, a feature typical of the daggerwing butterflies. The wings are generally a pale orange or tan color, marked with subtle dark lines and spots that provide camouflage in forested habitats. The butterfly exhibits sexual dimorphism, with males often displaying more vivid coloration compared to the more subdued tones of the females. Its delicate structure and swift, gliding flight make it a visually appealing species for butterfly enthusiasts and researchers alike.
The pale daggerwing is found primarily in Central and parts of South America. Its distribution includes countries such as Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, extending into the northern regions of South America including Colombia and Venezuela. It typically inhabits tropical and subtropical forests, where it is often observed fluttering through clearings or resting on sunlit leaves. The species prefers lower to mid-elevation environments and is often seen near rivers or forest edges, which provide both feeding opportunities and suitable host plants for its larvae.
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 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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