Sword-tailed Flash
Common NameSword-tailed Flash
Scientific NameMahathala ameria
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsbrown, orange-brown, tan
HabitatTropical evergreen and deciduous forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
Host PlantsAcacia mangium, Acacia auriculiformis
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, and the larvae, which are typically slug-shaped, feed on the leaves. Like many Lycaenids, the larvae may exhibit myrmecophily (association with ants) before pupating and emerging as adults.
Identification TipsThe most distinctive feature is the very long, sword-like tail on the hindwings. The mottled brown and orange-brown underside with darker spots and wavy lines is also characteristic, providing camouflage against bark or dead leaves.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly characterized by an exceptionally long, slender, sword-like tail on each hindwing. The underside is a mottled pattern of various shades of brown and orange-brown, with irregular darker spots and wavy lines.
