Introduction

Archonias brassolis is a surprising "white" butterfly, being primarily black, with red hindwing patches and white forewing patches. It is geographically variable, some forms being remarkable mimics of various Parides "cattleheart" swallowtails, and others bearing a strong resemblance to members of the red and yellow rayed Heliconius species (Nymphalidae). It is likely that these butterflies are themselves unpalatable and thus Müllerian mimics. The larvae feed on mistletoe (Loranthaceae) and are gregarious.