Jalapus Cloudywing (Achalarus jalapus [Plötz])
Wing span: 1 5/8 - 1 7/8 inches (4.2 - 5 cm).
Identification: Upperside is dark brown; forewing has dark rectangular spots. Male forewing has a costal fold enclosing scent scales. Hindwing is lobed at the rear and has white fringe. Underside of hindwing is dark brown with 2 darker bands.
Life history: Not reported.
Flight: Many broods in Mexico; strays to South Texas in July and September-October.
Caterpillar hosts: Not reported.
Adult food: Flower nectar.
Habitat: Tropical forests, especially near streams.
Range: Colombia north through Central America to Mexico. Strays north to the lower Rio Grande Valley, Texas.
Conservation: Not necessary for a rare stray.
The Nature Conservancy Global Rank: G4 - Apparently secure globally, though it might be quite rare in parts of its range, especially at the periphery.
Management needs: None reported.
References:
Opler, P. A. and V. Malikul. 1992. A field guide to eastern butterflies. Peterson field guide #4. Houghton-Mifflin Co., Boston. 396 pages, 48 color plates. Scott, J. A. 1986. The butterflies of North America. Stanford University Press, Stanford, Calif. 583 pages, 64 color plates.
Author: Jane M. Struttmann