Lepidothrix

Lepidothrix is a genus of small passerine birds in the family Pipridae, the manakins. The genus is native to the Neotropical realm, with species occurring in tropical forests across northern and central South America, particularly the Amazon Basin and adjacent Andean foothills. The group comprises several species that show considerable variation in plumage and range.

Members of Lepidothrix are small, typically around 9–11 cm in length. Males are usually more brightly colored than females, often with iridescent greens or blues and metallic reflections, while females are more subdued brown or olive, blending with the forest understory.

They inhabit the understory and lower canopy of humid tropical forests, sometimes extending into forest edges and secondary growth. Their diet is omnivorous, consisting mainly of fruits and small invertebrates such as insects and spiders.

Reproduction is characteristic of many manakins, with males performing courtship displays in lek-like aggregations to attract females. Females select mates and raise the young on their own, building small cup-shaped nests in trees or shrubs. Breeding seasons vary with locality.

Conservation status varies by species; habitat loss and fragmentation threaten several Lepidothrix populations, though many species have relatively wide distributions and are not currently listed as threatened. Ongoing field studies aim to clarify species limits and movements within this genus.