Fritzgaertner's Flat
Common NameFritzgaertner's Flat
Scientific NameCelaenorrhinus fritzgaertneri
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, pale yellow, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical moist forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico south through Central America to northern South America (Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela)
Host PlantsLikely plants in the family Acanthaceae (e.g., Justicia)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult). Larvae are likely cryptic, feeding on host plants, and pupate in a leaf shelter.
Identification TipsKey features include its robust body, hooked antennae, and the distinctive pattern of translucent pale spots on the dark forewings, which are typically more rectangular than round.
Description
A robust, medium-sized skipper with dark brown wings featuring prominent, somewhat rectangular, translucent pale yellow to white spots on the forewings. Its body is hairy and dark brown.
