Monkey Puzzle Rathinda amor

Meet a butterfly with a whimsical common name: the 'monkey puzzle.' Here's what makes it unusual: it's a monotypic genus—meaning only this single species exists in its entire genus, making it a unique branch on the evolutionary tree. Found in Sri Lanka and India, this lycaenid butterfly is a specialist of the Indian subcontinent. The curious common name 'monkey puzzle' doesn't reference its behavior or appearance in any obvious way, but rather adds to the charming, playful way naturalists have named insects, a reminder that science has personality and this small butterfly has earned its distinctive place in the world.