White-tipped Cycadian
Common NameWhite-tipped Cycadian
Scientific NameEumaeus toxea
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyEumaeinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsblack, orange, blue-green
HabitatTropical forests, open woodlands, forest edges, areas with cycads
Geographic RangeMexico, Central America (Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica, Panama), occasionally southern Texas
Host PlantsZamia species (cycads)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; May to November in northern parts of its range
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed exclusively on cycads, particularly *Zamia* species, sequestering toxins from the plants which makes them and the adult butterflies unpalatable to predators.
Identification TipsKey features include the black wings with iridescent blue-green spots, a prominent orange basal patch on the hindwing, and distinctive white-tipped antennae (though not visible in this specific image).
Description
This butterfly has velvety black wings adorned with iridescent blue-green spots along the hindwing margin and a striking orange patch at the base of the hindwing.
