Our care guide for Longwings can be found here.
Heliconius melpomene, commonly known as the Postman Butterfly, is a brightly colored species native to Central and South America. Part of the Nymphalidae family and subfamily Heliconidae, this butterfly is known for its vivid red, black, and white/yellow wing patterns, which serve as aposematic signals to warn predators of its toxicity. These colors are not only beautiful but also a product of Müllerian mimicry, where it shares similar patterns with other toxic species, enhancing protection for all involved species - specifically, H. melpomene co-evolved with Heliconius erato, and both species are sympatric co-mimics throughout their range with dozens of geographical forms and variations. In the butterfly house, these different forms interbreed to produce a fantastic array of colourful hybrids, which continue to breed and produce new forms.
The Postman butterfly is especially notable for its feeding and behavioral adaptations. Unlike most butterflies, it feeds on pollen in addition to nectar, which gives it an extended lifespan as it is capable of digesting pollen's amino acids. The protein food source from pollen enables the postman to live for several months, a rare trait among butterflies. Its host plants are species of Passiflora, Passionvines, which contain toxic compounds ingested by caterpillars and retained into adulthood as a defense - Passiflora caerulea is an excellent host plant for captive breeding in this species, with eggs typically being laid on the foliage and stems of new growth. Shade and humidity are particularly important for this butterfly.
Heliconius melpomene has been widely studied in genetics and evolution due to its fascinating color pattern variations and mimicry with other species, making it a model organism for studying adaptation and natural selection. It plays an essential role in pollination and contributes to the rich biodiversity of its tropical habitats.
Host plants: Passionvines (Passiflora)
Difficulty: Easy (2/10)
Conditions: Warm room temperature & high humidity.
Lifecycle: Continually brooded; adults are very long-lived.
