Behaviour and natural history of <i>Greta oto </i>in captivity (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Ithomiinae).

Abstract

The life cycle of Greta oto (Hewitson) (Nymphalidae: Ithomiinae) and the suitability of various foodplants are described. Its behaviour in captiviy is discussed. The ability of this species and other butterflies to display apparently natural behaviour and breed in a small greenhouse emphasises the value of captive populations for behavioural research as well as for public exhibition.