Chutes-and-ladders Hairstreak
Common NameChutes-and-ladders Hairstreak
Scientific NameStrephonota acosha
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorspale grey, orange, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico south through Central America to northern South America (e.g., Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil)
Host PlantsPaullinia species, Sapindaceae family plants
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult. Larvae feed on specific host plants before pupating.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the unique 'chutes-and-ladders' pattern of orange-brown spots and black lines on the pale underside of the hindwing, combined with the two tails and the orange-ringed black eyespot. The antennae are banded black and white with orange tips.
Description
A small hairstreak butterfly with a pale greyish-white underside, marked with a distinctive pattern of orange-brown spots, black dashes, and a prominent black spot on the hindwing. It possesses two slender tails on each hindwing, with an orange-ringed black eyespot near the tails.
