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Martial Scrub-Hairstreak
Strymon martialis (Herrich-Schäffer, 1865)
Attributes of Strymon martialisFamily: Gossamer-wing Butterflies (Lycaenidae) Subfamily: Hairstreaks (Theclinae) Identification: One long and one short tail on hindwing. Upperside black with some blue patches. Below, hindwing has distinct black and white postmedian line and a large, blurry submarginal orange eyespot. Life history: Young caterpillars feed on new leaves, flowers, and fruits; full-grown caterpillars can feed on older leaves. Flight: From February-December; the number of broods is unknown. Wing span: 1 1/8 - 1 3/8 inches (2.8 - 3.5 cm). Caterpillar hosts: Florida trema (Trema micrantha) and bay cedar (Suriana maritima). Adult food: Nectar from flowers including bay cedar, lantana, Brazilian pepper, tournefortia, shepherd's needle, and lippia. Habitat: Sunny areas and fields near the coast. Range: Southern Florida and the Keys, West Indies. Conservation: All populations should be conserved. NatureServe Global Status: G4 - Apparently secure globally, though it might be quite rare in parts of its range, especially at the periphery. Management needs: Prevent habitat destruction or loss of host plants to competition from exotic plants. | Documented Records for Strymon martialis |
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