Lucena Hairstreak
Common NameLucena Hairstreak
Scientific NameStrymon lucena
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Primary Colorsgray, silver, dark brown
HabitatArid scrublands, canyons, rocky areas, desert washes
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas) and northern Mexico
Host PlantsAcacia greggii, Acacia constricta, Acacia rigidula
Flight PeriodMarch to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant buds or young leaves. Larvae feed on the flowers and young pods of *Acacia* species. Pupation occurs near the base of the host plant.
Identification TipsKey features include the silvery-gray underside with a broken dark postmedian line and the distinct black spot near the hindwing tornus, usually with a short tail. The overall pattern and coloration help distinguish it from similar hairstreaks.
Description
This small hairstreak has a silvery-gray underside with a broken postmedian band of dark spots and a prominent black spot near the hindwing tornus, often with a touch of orange. It possesses a single short tail on each hindwing.
