forum. There are now a fair number of these offered by
various sellers and dealers on a weekly basis. Initially, some
4 to 5 years ago when they first began showing up they
were (somewhat) pricey and spectacular "one-offs" took
off from that price point.
However, nowadays in just a short span of time they have
dropped considerably in pricing; thus, making them much
more affordable to those of more modest means.
There can be considerable color variations present in some
of these hybrids. Males offer far bolder colors and generally
MORE coverage of those colors on the wings.
Many are sold as (papered) stock so, in this regard you really
have to have your "game-on" when your working with them.
This means that these are generally NOT meant for novice
preparators/hobbyists. It has been remarked by members here
that these are (sometimes) dispatched using chemicals which
really "stiffen" them up BEYOND their already typically trying
preparation.
However, some offerings out there are posted as spread/mounted
specimens. Here, the buyer/hobbyist can clearly view the specimen
offered, can examine the nuances of its variation, and can decide
if the preparation is professional in appearance.
The above specimens have been acquired by me over these last
3 months. I'm unsure as to their (parentage) and yet I really got
them more-so for their uncompromising "bling".
All arrived (spread) and although I probably paid for the priviledge
of their work-up --- I am thoroughly happy with the outcome !
To purists of this group these may be regarded as "baubles" of little
natural/scientific value. Yet, some of us may never afford actual
(natural) hybrids or expensive subspecies or forms. So, in this way
these "produced" hybrid offerings still allow purists to do their
thing (at their level); whilst, other modest enthusiasts can still
enjoy the "occasional" trappings of extravagant desire.
