Hebrew Hairstreak
Common NameHebrew Hairstreak
Scientific NamePanthiades hebraeus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsbrown, grey
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico south to Brazil and Argentina)
Host PlantsInga spp., Fabaceae
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple broods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae feed on leaves, often engaging in myrmecophily (association with ants). Pupation occurs near the host plant.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled brown and grey underside pattern with a wavy dark line across the hindwing and a short, delicate tail. The iridescent blue upperside is also a key feature when visible.
Description
This small hairstreak butterfly displays a cryptic, mottled brown and grey underside with a wavy postmedian line and a short tail on the hindwing. The upperside is typically iridescent blue or purple.
