Hodges#4319

Callophrys hesseli

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Papilionoidea
Family: Lycaenidae
Subfamily: Theclinae
Tribe: Eumaeini
Genus: Callophrys
Species: hesseli

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Callophrys hesseli: /kəˈlɒfrɪs ˈhɛsɛlaɪ/

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Summary

Callophrys hesseli, or Hessel's hairstreak, is a butterfly of the family Lycaenidae, named in honor of lepidopterist Sidney A. Hessel. It is characterized by unique coloration and associations with specific larval host plants. It is an endangered species in Connecticut, primarily residing along the Atlantic and Gulf coastal plains.

Physical Characteristics

More striking white markings on the underside with stronger reddish brown borders, irregularly arranged on hind wing creating a checkered appearance; crescent-shaped spots near the base of the hind wing; distinctly offset white band on front wing.

Identification Tips

Distinguished from Juniper Hairstreak (Callophrys gryneus) by larval host plant association, coloration, and wing pattern.

Habitat

Primarily found on the Gulf and Atlantic coastal plain.

Distribution

Ranges from southern Maine to northern Florida along the Atlantic coastal plain and Gulf Coast.

Diet

Caterpillars feed on Atlantic white-cedar (Chamaecyparis thyoides). Adults consume nectar from swamp milkweed, shadbush, sand myrtle, sweet pepperbush, highbush blueberry, buttonbush, and dogbane.

Conservation Status

Listed as endangered in Connecticut by state authorities.

Cultural Significance

Named in honor of lepidopterist Sidney Adolphus Hessel, a charter member of the Lepidopterists' Society.

Evolution

Originally described as Mitoura hesseli by Rawson & Ziegler in 1950.

Similar Taxa

Callophrys (Mitoura) gryneus