Aetolus Stripestreak
Common NameAetolus Stripestreak
Scientific NameAetolus erythrus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, cream, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico to Brazil)
Host Plantsvarious broadleaf trees and shrubs, potentially Fabaceae species like Inga
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are typically slug-like and flattened, and some species within the subfamily Theclinae exhibit myrmecophily (association with ants).
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive black and cream-white striped pattern on the underside of the wings, coupled with the bright orange marginal band on the hindwing. The antennae are black with white tips.
Description
A small butterfly characterized by its striking black and cream-white striped undersides, with a prominent orange band along the margin of the hindwing.
