Lycaenidae : Theclinae
Strymon martialis (Herrich-Schäffer, 1864)
Martial Scrub-Hairstreak
Strymon martialis (Herrich-Schäffer, 1864)
Martial Scrub-Hairstreak
Description and Similar Species: Wingspan 26-30mm. The underwing is grey with a V mark on the hindwing comprising orange on one half and white on the other. The upperside is is bright blue and grey with an orange spot at the tornus which is diagnostic. Sexes are similar though males have the upperside darker and with slightly more blue than females. The confusion species is Bartram's Scrub-Hairstreak Strymon acis though that has bolder thicker white lines on the underside and lacks the blue on the upperside.
Range: Mainland USA and the West Indies.
Status: In Cuba it is uncommon and found mainly on seashores where Suriana maritima grows but can also be found in other open places.
Nectar Plants: Varronia globosa, Croton, Suriana maritima, Lantana, Tournefortia, Bidens pilosa, Flaveria and Schinus.
Larval Foodplants: Bay Cedar Suriana maritima (Surianaceae) and Jamaican Nettle-tree Trema micrantha (Ulmaceae). Eggs are laid on the leaves and young larvae feed at first on the flowers and developing seeds. Has also been observed in ovipositing behaviour on Varronia globosa (Fernández).
Range: Mainland USA and the West Indies.
Status: In Cuba it is uncommon and found mainly on seashores where Suriana maritima grows but can also be found in other open places.
Nectar Plants: Varronia globosa, Croton, Suriana maritima, Lantana, Tournefortia, Bidens pilosa, Flaveria and Schinus.
Larval Foodplants: Bay Cedar Suriana maritima (Surianaceae) and Jamaican Nettle-tree Trema micrantha (Ulmaceae). Eggs are laid on the leaves and young larvae feed at first on the flowers and developing seeds. Has also been observed in ovipositing behaviour on Varronia globosa (Fernández).
Foodplants and Habitat
