Meliboeus Hairstreak
Common NameMeliboeus Hairstreak
Scientific NameArawacus meliboeus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorstan, black, blue
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (Mexico to Brazil)
Host PlantsCordia species (Boraginaceae)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, with peaks during wet seasons
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; eggs are laid on host plants, larvae feed on leaves, pupation occurs before emerging as an adult butterfly.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the distinctive black striped pattern on the tan underside, the presence of a short tail on the hindwing, and its typical small size for a hairstreak.
Description
A small butterfly with light brown to tan undersides, prominently marked with black stripes along the veins. The hindwing features a short tail and a small blue spot near the anal angle.
