Dicot Skippers
Eudaminae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Lepidoptera
- Superfamily: Papilionoidea
- Family: Hesperiidae
- Subfamily: Eudaminae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Eudaminae: /juːˈdæmɪniː/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
The Eudaminae represents a distinctive and recognizable group of skipper butterflies primarily occurring in the Neotropics and with some range extending into North America. They were previously classified within the Pyrginae but are now recognized as a separate subfamily due to both morphological and molecular studies.
Physical Characteristics
Usually large for Skippers. Front wings (and usually hind wings) distinctly triangular in shape. Hind wings often prolonged at the hind angle, sometimes into a long tail. Antennae with long tapered clubs that curve through their length. Usually dark brown with angular white, gold, or glassy spots on front wings and sometimes hind wings. Often with a reflective blue or green sheen to the base of wings and body above. Most species rest or perch with wings folded in typical 'butterfly fashion' or only partially opened.
Identification Tips
Most easily confused with some of the darker members of subfamily Hesperiinae (Grass Skippers), but those are usually smaller with differently shaped antennal clubs. Eudaminae typically rest with hind wings less spread than front wings, unlike Pyrginae which often rest with wings flat to the sides.
Habitat
Most species favor wooded areas where their host plants grow, typically in areas with various dicots, mostly woody plants like Fabaceae.
Distribution
Largely found in the Neotropics, with some extending into temperate North America, and at least one genus endemic to East Asia.
Diet
Larvae primarily feed on dicotyledonous plants, especially those in the Fabaceae family.
Life Cycle
The life cycle details are not provided in the text.
Reproduction
Specific details about the reproductive habits are not provided in the text.
Predators
Predators are not specifically mentioned in the text.
Ecosystem Role
As herbivores, the larvae play a role in plant population control and the adult butterflies participate in pollination.
Evolution
The subfamily Eudaminae has undergone significant taxonomic revisions, now confirmed as a distinct subfamily separate from Pyrginae based on DNA evidence.
Misconceptions
Members of the Eudaminae are often confused with smaller and differently behaving Skippers from other subfamilies due to their appearance and resting posture.
Tags
- Eudaminae
- skipper butterflies
- Hesperiidae
- taxonomy
- Leipdoptora