Phocides
Hübner, 1819
Guava Skipper (for Phocides polybius)
Species Guides
4- Phocides belus(Belus skipper)
- Phocides pigmalion(Pigmalion Skipper)
- Phocides polybius(guava skipper)
- Phocides urania(Rainbow Skipper)
Phocides is a of skippers ( Hesperiidae) containing approximately 20 , primarily distributed in the Neotropical region. The genus is the namesake of the tribe Phocidini within Eudaminae. Several species have distinctive , including Phocides polybius, known as the guava skipper. The genus extends from South America through Central America and the Caribbean, with a few species reaching the southern United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Phocides: /ˈfɒsɪdiːz/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Members of Phocides can be distinguished from other Eudaminae skippers by genitalic characteristics and wing venation patterns typical of the tribe Phocidini. -level identification relies on examination of wing patterns, particularly the configuration of light and dark markings on the forewings and hindwings, and often requires reference to male genitalia. Phocides polybius is recognizable by its brown wings with yellow-green bands and spots.
Images
Habitat
Tropical and subtropical including forest edges, clearings, and areas with flowering plants. Many are associated with disturbed habitats and agricultural areas where larval plants occur.
Distribution
Primarily Neotropical, ranging from Argentina and Brazil north through Central America and the Caribbean. Several occur in the Nearctic region, with Phocides polybius recorded as a stray in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas and Phocides urania occurring in Texas and Mexico.
Diet
feed on nectar from flowers. Larvae of Phocides polybius feed on guava (Psidium guajava) and other plants in the Myrtaceae.
Host Associations
- Psidium guajava - larval Primary for Phocides polybius
- Myrtaceae - larval containing larval plants for Phocides polybius
Behavior
of Phocides polybius are known for making prolonged stops at flowers, allowing close approach and photography. This has made the popular among observers.
Human Relevance
Phocides polybius, the guava skipper, is of minor economic concern as a pest of guava in tropical regions. The has gained attention from enthusiasts, particularly in South Texas where Phocides polybius is sought after by observers.
Similar Taxa
- Other Eudaminae skippersSimilar overall body plan and style; distinguished by wing pattern details and genitalic
- UrbanusAnother in Eudaminae with similar long-tailed skipper appearance; Phocides typically has more robust body and different wing banding patterns
More Details
Taxonomic authorship
The was established by Jacob Hübner in 1819.
Etymology
The name Phocides and the tribe Phocidini are derived from this genus, making it the type genus of the tribe.