Subfamily Biblidinae - Tropical Brushfoots

This subfamily has sometimes been lumped in with Limenitidinae, but it not particularly closely related to that group. Recent molecular studies show that the Biblidinae are very closely related to the subfamily Nymphalidae. In fact, they are closely related enough that it could be debated whether they should be in a separate subfamily at all; perhaps they should be treated as a tribe (or perhaps two) within the Nymphalinae. They share with the Nymphalinae very similar adult morphology, but as a group are more inclined to have brilliant flashy patterns above. They do mostly (with some obvious exceptions) have similar cryptic coloration and patterns on the underside. Like the Nymphalinae, the larvae bear spines in the middle of the back (if they have spines - most do), while the Limenitidinae do not. The larvae also often have long knobbed "horns" on their head, which is something that is common to certain groups of Nymphalinae as well.