Numata Longwing (Heliconius numata) | PUPAE

Heliconius numata, commonly known as the Numata Longwing, is a species of butterfly in the family Nymphalidae and the subfamily Heliconidae. It is known for its striking coloration and mimicry, which is a characteristic feature of many species in the Heliconius genus. This butterfly is found in South America, specifically in the Amazon Basin and parts of the Andes foothills.

The Numata Longwing has a distinctive appearance with vibrant color patterns, which vary significantly based geographical region. A notable characteristic of Heliconius numata is its mimicry of toxic butterfly species from the family Melinaea. This helps protect it from predators, as their wing colouration is associated with toxic prey. The butterflies’ coloration and patterns mimic those of species that are distasteful or poisonous to predators, giving them a survival advantage. It has a wingspan of approximately 5 to 7 cm, making it a medium-sized butterfly. Alongside its extended lifespan, egg-laying also occurs over a long period in this species, with only 1-3 eggs laid per day once the butterflies reach maturity.

It typically inhabits shady, humid rainforests and forest edges, where it can find its host plants and feeding sources. Heliconius numata follows traplines through the same areas every day, visiting flowers it remembers and recognises - these butterflies have an evolutionary enhancement whereby their brain's memory and learning centres are triple or quadruple the size of others. The larvae of Heliconius numata feed on plants from the Passifloraceae family - we use Passiflora caerulea in the butterfly house. These host plants are crucial for the survival of the caterpillars, and many species of Heliconius butterflies have a specialized relationship with them.

Host plants: Passionvines (Passiflora)

Difficulty: Easy (2/10)

Conditions: Warm room temperature & high humidity.

Lifecycle: Continually brooded; adults are very long-lived.