Strymon alea

(Godman & Salvin, 1887)

Lacey's Scrub-Hairstreak, Alea Hairstreak

Strymon alea is a small in the , first described by Godman and Salvin in 1887. It ranges from northwestern Rica through Mexico to central and southern Texas, occupying subtropical thorn scrub . The has a wingspan of 19–29 mm. feed on flower nectar, while feed specifically on Bernardia myricaefolia and flowers.

Strymon alea by (c) Nick Block, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Nick Block. Used under a CC-BY license.Strymon alea by (c) johnyochum, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by johnyochum. Used under a CC-BY license.Strymon alea by (c) Nick Block, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Nick Block. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Strymon alea: //ˈstraɪmən ˈæl.i.ə//

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Identification

A small with wingspan 19–29 mm. Distinguished from similar Strymon by its restricted range in subtropical thorn scrub and specific larval association with Bernardia myricaefolia. The "Lacey's scrub-hairstreak" refers to its preference.

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Habitat

Subtropical thorn scrub, a dry forest characterized by dense, thorny vegetation adapted to seasonal drought.

Distribution

Northwestern Rica through Mexico to central and southern Texas.

Diet

feed on flower nectar. feed on and flowers of Bernardia myricaefolia.

Host Associations

  • Bernardia myricaefolia - larval feed on and flowers

Similar Taxa

  • Strymon melinusGray is widespread across North America and shares similar size and general appearance, but occupies broader range and uses different plants
  • Strymon acisBartram's Scrub- is another thorn scrub but restricted to Florida pine rocklands, not Texas/Mexico range

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Sources and further reading