Callophrys dumetorum
(Boisduval, 1852)
Lotus Hairstreak, Bramble Hairstreak, Coastal Green Hairstreak, Bluish Green Hairstreak, Oregon Green Hairstreak (subspecies C. d. oregonensis)
Species Guides
1Callophrys dumetorum is a small lycaenid found primarily in coastal California. The exhibits striking in wing coloration, with vivid green surfaces and subdued brown surfaces. Taxonomic history of this species has been complex, involving lectotype disputes and temporary replacement of the name C. dumetorum with C. perplexa before ICZN Opinion 2291 reverted the changes in 2012.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Callophrys dumetorum: //kæˈlɒfrɪs ˌdjuːmɪˈtɔːrəm//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from similar green hairstreaks by the limited green on the forewing surface, which is typically restricted to the leading third rather than covering most of the wing. The broken white postmedial line separates it from uniformly green . C. d. oregonensis occurs in Washington and Oregon.
Images
Habitat
Heathlands, road-cuts, coastal dunes, and open sites and clearings in Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine forests
Distribution
Coastal California, United States; rarely in inland California. C. d. oregonensis occurs in Washington and Oregon
Diet
Larvae feed on broad-leafed lotus and Acmispon nevadensis. feed on nectar from larval plants as well as desert parsley, dogbane, yerba santa, California buckeye, and woolly sunflower
Similar Taxa
- Callophrys viridisFormerly confused due to lectotype misidentification; resolved by ICZN Opinion 2291
- Callophrys sheridaniiInvolved in taxonomic confusion with C. dumetorum during lectotype dispute
- Callophrys affinisSimilar green coloration but differs in distribution and wing pattern details
Misconceptions
The was temporarily renamed Callophrys perplexa in 1998 due to a lectotype misidentification that incorrectly assigned the C. dumetorum to what is now C. viridis. This was reversed by ICZN Opinion 2291 in 2012.