Elymniini

Elymniini is a tribe of butterflies within the subfamily Satyrinae, family Nymphalidae. They are commonly known as the nymph butterflies or brown butterflies. This tribe primarily comprises butterflies found in Southeast Asia, Oceania, and Australia.

Characteristics:

Elymniini butterflies typically exhibit drab coloration, often featuring shades of brown, gray, and black. This camouflage helps them blend in with their forest floor habitat. Many species have distinctive eyespots on their wings, which may serve to startle or distract predators. They often have a characteristic skipping or fluttering flight pattern.

Classification:

The classification within the Elymniini tribe has undergone revisions over time and may vary depending on the source. Genera commonly included in the Elymniini tribe are:

• Elymnias
• Hyposocysta
• Lethe (sometimes placed in a separate tribe, Lethini)
• Megisto
• Mycalesis (sometimes placed in a separate tribe, Mycalesini)
• Neope
• Orsotriaena
• Paralethe
• Zipaetis

Habitat and Distribution:

These butterflies are typically found in tropical and subtropical forests, often in areas with dense vegetation and moist environments. Their distribution is largely confined to the Indomalayan and Australasian realms.

Life Cycle:

The larvae of Elymniini butterflies typically feed on plants in the grass family (Poaceae), as well as palms and other monocotyledonous plants. The pupae are usually cryptic, resembling twigs or dead leaves.