Mexican Cycadian
Common NameMexican Cycadian
Scientific NameEumaeus toxea
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)42.5
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, green, red
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, cycad groves
Geographic RangeMexico, Central America
Host PlantsZamia, Dioon, Cycas
Flight PeriodYear-round (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed exclusively on cycad leaves, sequestering toxins from the plants, which makes them and the adult butterflies unpalatable to predators. Pupae are typically cryptic, blending with their surroundings.
Identification TipsLook for its striking velvety black wings with iridescent green-blue spots on the hindwing and a bright red basal patch. Its presence is strongly associated with cycad plants, its exclusive host.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with velvety black wings, featuring a distinctive row of iridescent green-blue spots along the outer margin of the hindwing and a prominent red patch near the base of the hindwing.
