[Illustration]
This genus has lately been proposed for the reception of a few species
formerly classed among the _Nymphales_. They are remarkable for having
the surface covered with blue markings on a dark ground, and in other
respects seem to be entitled to generic distinction. The neuration
of the wings presents the annexed arrangement.--The caterpillar (at
least of _P. Amphinome_) bears some resemblance to that of _Morpho_.
It is long and attenuated behind, the anal extremity deeply forked,
and the head armed with eight strong unequal spines, resembling a kind
of coronet. The chrysalis is elongated, bifid anteriorly, and having
a series of dorsal spines. They are natives of the New World. The
male of the species above referred to is of a deep black colour on
the surface, with a silky gloss, sprinkled with numerous small blue
spots; the female is larger, and besides markings similar to those of
the male, has a broad white band in the middle of each of the superior
wings lying obliquely, and terminating in a point. The whole of the
under side, in both sexes, is shining brown with a very slight tinge
of green; the hinder wings with ten rounded bright red spots, three
near the base, two on the interior edge, and five forming a row on
the hinder margin towards the anal angle. The white band is likewise
conspicuous on the under side of the female, and in place of it, in the
male, there is a bluish interrupted oblique line; body black above and
spotted with blue; brown beneath, with red spots on the breast.
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