Poritia sumatrae sumatrae (Sumatran Gem)

The Sumatran Gem is a rather rare butterfly in Singapore, and only makes its appearance occasionally.  Of the genus Poritia,  only Poritia philota philota is found in Singapore, besides Poritia sumatrae sumatrae.   The species usually flies in bright sunshine early in the morning and settles on leaves with its wings closed or semi-open. The males of this species are a bright metallic green with thick black apices covering the cells on the forewings.  It is a pretty butterfly.  The females are light purple above with reddish streaks. The underside is reddish brown with striations.  The legs of the butterfly are banded.

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