Morpho menelaus

The Menelaus blue morpho (Morpho menelaus) is one of thirty species of butterfly in the subfamily Morphinae.[1] Its wingspan is approximately 12 cm, and its dorsal forewings and hindwings are a bright, iridescent blue edged with black, while the ventral surfaces are brown.[2] Its iridescent wings are an area of interest in research because of its unique microstructure.[3] Due to its characteristic blue color, Morpho menelaus is considered highly valuable among collectors and was widely hunted in the 20th century.[4] However, deforestation remains the main threat to the survival of this species.[5]