Oenomaus ortygnus
(Cramer, 1782)
Aquamarine Hairstreak
Oenomaus ortygnus, the aquamarine , is a relatively large hairstreak (Lycaenidae) ranging from southern Brazil through Central America to Mexico, with rare strays reaching southern Texas. The is notable as a significant fruit pest of Annona crops, with larvae boring into fruits of ilama and related species. display iridescent aquamarine upper wing surfaces.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Oenomaus ortygnus: /ˌiːnəˈmeɪəs ɔːrˈtɪɡnəs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other hairstreaks by combination of larger size (30–38 mm wingspan), iridescent aquamarine upper wing coloration, and pattern with black basal spot and extensive blue along lower margin. Geographic variation in ventral pattern may complicate identification in some regions.
Images
Habitat
Low elevation wet and dry tropical forests. In Mexico, recorded at elevations from 40 m to 2119 m, with survey localities at 1163–1254 m. Also found in orchards of Annona .
Distribution
Brazil through Central America to Tamaulipas, Mexico. Rare strays recorded in southern Texas, USA. In Mexico, documented in at least 15 states including Morelos, Guerrero, Puebla, Nayarit, and Estado de México.
Seasonality
active year-round in tropical regions. In Mexico, adults recorded from January through November.
Diet
Larvae feed on fruit pulp of Annona , specifically Annona diversifolia (ilama), Annona reticulata (bullock ), and Annona globiflora. No evidence of feeding on Annona muricata or Annona cherimola in field surveys despite previous literature reports.
Host Associations
- Annona diversifolia - larval ilama; fruit borer
- Annona reticulata - larval bullock
- Annona globiflora - larval
Life Cycle
Females oviposit on fruits of plants. Larvae feed on fruit pulp under necrotic tissue; one to five larvae per fruit. occurs on external surface of fruit. emerge year-round in tropical ; January through November in Mexico. Laboratory rearing successful at 26 ± 1°C, 50% relative humidity.
Behavior
Larvae are fruit borers, feeding concealed under necrotic tissue on Annona fruits. Multiple larvae may inhabit a single fruit. likely perch with wings closed, displaying surfaces.
Ecological Role
Pest of Annona fruit crops in Mexico and Central America; considered one of the main economically important pests of Annona alongside Bephratelloides cubensis and Cerconota anonella.
Human Relevance
Significant agricultural pest causing economic damage to ilama and other Annona fruit crops. Larval feeding damages fruit pulp, reducing marketability.
Similar Taxa
- Other Oenomaus speciesShare and general ; distinguished by specific wing coloration and pattern details, particularly the aquamarine iridescence and distinctive spotting of O. ortygnus
- Other Theclinae hairstreaksSimilar size and wing shape; O. ortygnus distinguished by larger size relative to many hairstreaks, specific aquamarine coloration, and documented association with Annona fruits as larval
More Details
Taxonomic Authority Variation
NCBI records authority as (Cramer, 1779); Catalogue of Life and other sources use (Cramer, 1782).
Host Plant Literature Discrepancy
Previous literature reported larvae on Annona muricata and Annona cherimola, but field surveys found no evidence of damage to these despite their presence in study areas.