Riechia acraeoides (Guérin-Méneville, [1832])

(Fig. 9)

Castnia acraeoides Guérin-Méneville, [1832]

Taxonomic history. The genus was discerned thanks to its resemblance to certain species in the genus Actinote (Nymphalidae: Acraeinae) (Miller 1986). The species was described by Guérin-Méneville in the genus Castnia, and was eventually placed in the genus Herrichia (Buchecker, [1880]). Since this proposed genus was found to be preoccupied, Oiticica (1955) replaced it for Riechia.

Distribution. Widely distributed in South East Brazil, this species can be also found in Northern Argentina and Paraguay (Miller 1986; Jörgensen 1930). It resembles some species of Actinote Hübner (Nymphalidae: Acraeinae) (Miller 1986; Jörgensen 1930). Jörgensen (1930) cites it from San Bernardino, Cordillera Department, Paraguay.

Biology and behavior. Two males were collected by the first author on two different dates in a disturbed forest in Asunción. Both were resting under an Yvapurú tree, Myrciaria cauliflora (Mart.) O. Berg, Myrtaceae, at midday. Tillandsia sp., a possible hostplant, was observed to be quite common in this forest. The species has been detected flying during the day in December and January in some locations in Brazil (Biezanko 1961a).

The larvae have been found feeding on Tillandsia meridionalis Baker and T. didisticha (E. Morren) Baker (Bromeliaceae) (Miller 1986). They have been reared in Argentina under laboratory conditions using pseudobulbs of Miltonia flavescens Lindl. (Orchidaceae) (A. Tricio, pers. comm.). A female was observed ovipositing on Oncidium jonesianum Rchb. f. (Orchidaceae) (Jörgensen 1930). Biezanko (1961a) mentions that the larvae feed on Tillandsia aeranthos (Loisel) L.B. Smith (Bromeliaceae) and a few Orchidaceae (Cattleya intermedia (Graham), C. loddigesii Lindl. and Laelia purpurata (Lindl. & Paxton).

Material examined. CENTRAL: 13, Asunción, 25°14´S, 57°32´W. 28. III. 2009, Coll. S.Ríos (MNHNPY); 13, Asunción, 25°14´S, 57°32´W. 3. IV. 2009, Coll. S.Ríos (MNHNPY).