Aquamarine Hairstreak
Common NameAquamarine Hairstreak
Scientific NameChlorostrymon maesites
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsblue-green, brown, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, open woodlands, gardens, forest edges
Geographic RangeSouthern Florida, Caribbean, Central America, South America
Host PlantsPaullinia fuscescens, Serjania diversifolia, Cardiospermum corindum
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; multiple broods from spring to fall in subtropical areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the host plant. Larvae feed on the leaves and young shoots. Pupation occurs on or near the host plant, leading to multiple generations annually.
Identification TipsKey features include the striking iridescent blue-green dorsal wing color, the brown ventral side with a prominent white postmedian line, and the combination of orange and black spots near the delicate tails on the hindwings.
Description
A small butterfly characterized by brilliant iridescent blue-green upperwings and brown underwings marked with fine white lines and distinct orange and black spots near the hindwing tails.
