Riker Mounted Malachite Butterfly

The Malachite butterfly (Siproeta stelenes) is a vibrant butterfly in the family Nymphalidae, found in Central and South America and parts of the southern United States. It is named for its striking green and black patterned wings, resembling the mineral malachite. Malachites thrive in tropical forests and open areas, often seen near flowering plants and fruit trees. Adults feed on nectar and overripe fruit, while the larvae feed on plants like ruellia and acanthus. Their bold colors and feeding habits play a key role in pollination and forest ecosystems.