Hairstreak Butterflies of Zihuatanejo

GENUS PSEUDOLYCAENA

• Animals (Kingdom Animalia)

• Arthropods (Phylum Arthropoda)

• Hexapods (Subphylum Hexapoda)

• Insects (Class Insecta)

• Butterflies and Moths (Order Lepidoptera)

• Butterflies (Superfamily Papilionoidea)

• Gossamer-winged Butterflies (Family Lycaenidae)

• Hairstreaks (Subfamily Theclinae)

• Tribe Eumaeini

• Genus Pseudolycaena

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Genus Pseudolycaena is a genus of medium-sized hairstreak butterflies in the family Lycaenidae, distributed throughout the Neotropical region from Mexico , Central and South America. Unlike many hairstreaks that are predominantly grey or brown, species of Pseudolycaena are often distinguished by their striking metallic blue, green, or violet upper wing surfaces, which can appear brilliantly iridescent in sunlight. The undersides are usually more subdued, displaying intricate patterns of lines and spots that provide camouflage when the butterflies rest with their wings closed. Most species have short hindwing tails and eye-like markings that form a "false head," helping to confuse predators.