Pale-clubbed Hairstreak
Common NamePale-clubbed Hairstreak
Scientific NameChlorostrymon simaethis
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Primary Colorsdark blue, black, teal
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, open woodlands, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (Florida, Texas), Mexico, Central America, Caribbean, and South America
Host PlantsCardiospermum halicacabum, Cardiospermum corindum
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; multiple broods from spring to fall in subtropical areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green or brownish, feeding on the leaves and flowers of balloon vines (Cardiospermum spp.). Pupation occurs on or near the host plant.
Identification TipsKey features include the iridescent blue band on the forewing, metallic blue-green markings on the hindwing underside, two small hindwing tails, and distinctively pale, clubbed antennae.
Description
A small butterfly with dark wings, featuring a brilliant iridescent blue band on the forewing and metallic blue-green markings on the hindwing underside, which also bears two slender tails.
