|
Butterflies of
the Amazon and Andes
Cyna Blue
Zizula cyna
EDWARDS,
1881
Family -
LYCAENIDAE
subfamily -
POLYOMMATINAE
Zizula cyna,
Rio Onolulo, Tingo
Maria, Peru.
Introduction
About 120 members of the cosmopolitan subfamily Polyommatinae occur in the
neotropical region. Most are confined to the temperate grasslands of the high
Andes, although a few species occur at much lower altitudes.
The genus
Zizula comprises of a single species -
cyna, a tiny, beautiful butterfly which is known to
be found from Texas to Bolivia, and probably also occurs in Chile and Paraguay.
Habitats
This species is found in disturbed grassy habitats throughout tropical and
subtropical areas of central and South America, at altitudes between sea level
and about 2000m. It is most often seen on scrubby grassland, but can also be
found along roadsides or regenerating grassy clearings in secondary rainforest
or disturbed cloudforest habitats.
Lifecycle
To be completed.
Adult behaviour
Cyna Blues are active only in hot sunshine, at which time small
numbers can be found flying in sheltered grassy areas. In overcast
or hazy conditions they roost in a head-downward posture, on
flowerheads, or on the stems of herbaceous or woody plants.
|
