Mexican-M Hairstreak
Common NameMexican-M Hairstreak
Scientific NameSarota acantus
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsbrown, white, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeSouthern Texas (USA), Mexico, Central America, and South America
Host PlantsAcacia species, other legumes
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; March to November in Texas
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are slug-like and may be myrmecophilous (associated with ants). Pupation occurs on or near the host plant.
Identification TipsLook for the unique white 'M' pattern on the brown underside of the hindwing, combined with bright orange spots near the hindwing tornus and metallic scales on the head and thorax.
Description
A small, dark brown butterfly with a distinctive underside pattern of prominent white lines, often forming an 'M' shape on the hindwing, and bright orange spots near the hindwing tornus and on the head.
