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Cambridge blue

Cambridge blue

Pseudolycaena marsyas

A species of Pseudolycaena, Also known as Marsyas hairstreak

Pseudolycaena marsyas has a wingspan of about 40–50 millimetres (1.6–2.0 in), a quite huge size in hairstreaks (hence the common name "giant hairstreak"). The uppersides of the wings are usually metallic blue, with hues varying from cobalt blue to turquoise blue depending on location. The apex of the wings are black and lightly falcade in males and the hindwings are tailed in both sexes, with a small black spot. The undersides of the wings are pale blue greyish, with several black spots and thin markings.

General Info About Cambridge blue
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Attributes of Cambridge blue
Colors
Black
Gray
Blue
Habitat
semi-open forest
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar, honeydew, pollen, bird droppings, ripe fruits
Larva Food Source
Leaves of shrubs, flower buds, plant stems, tendrils, plant tissue
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Distribution Area of Cambridge blue
This wide-ranging species occurs in Central and South America from Mexico up to Argentina, in semi-open forests at an elevation of about 0–1,000 metres (0–3,281 ft) above sea level.
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Life Cycle of Cambridge blue
Egg The cambridge blue begins as an egg, usually laid on a plant. It's minute and varies in color, often mirroring its environment for camouflage.
Larva As a caterpillar, the cambridge blue primarily eats and grows. It has a cylindrical body with distinct banding or patterns, shedding its skin multiple times.
Pupal The cambridge blue enters pupation within a chrysalis, undergoing significant transformation. The chrysalis may hang from a substrate or lie hidden in foliage.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult cambridge blue develops wings and reproductive organs. Their hardened body allows for flight, mating, and pollination activities.
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Predators of Cambridge blue Larvae
Birds, rodents, parasitoid wasps, ants
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Predators of Adult Cambridge blue
Birds, spiders, lizards, mantises, rodents
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Scientific Classification of Cambridge blue
Tips for Finding Cambridge blue
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Youth Habitat of Cambridge blue
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies
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Adult Habitat of Cambridge blue
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Tropical Rainforests, Savannas
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Habitat Preferences of Cambridge blue Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of cambridge blue are often deposited on flower buds or leaves of host plants. As they hatch into caterpillars, they can be found nestled in the undergrowth or on the host plants where they feed and grow. Searching for caterpillars requires examining the host plants, often at the caterpillar's specific feeding times. Pupae are usually formed in more concealed areas, such as the underside of leaves or in crevices near the host plants. Adults, with their ability to fly, can be located in habitats where they feed on nectar, such as flower-rich fields or edges of forests. To find adults, one should visit these flowers during sunny days when cambridge blue are most active.
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How and Where Can You Find Cambridge blue at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of cambridge blue can be found on the host plants that caterpillars feed on. They are often laid in clusters and may exhibit unique coloration or patterns. Search the underside of leaves and near flower buds of known host plants for these tiny eggs.
Larva Caterpillars of cambridge blue can be found on or near their food plants, often eating leaves or resting. Search for chewed leaves, frass (caterpillar droppings), or the caterpillars themselves, which may be camouflaged.
Pupal Pupae of cambridge blue are commonly attached to the host plants, structures nearby, or fallen debris. Look for chrysalises that are often disguised among foliage or other environmental elements to avoid predators.
Adult Cambridge blue adults can often be seen flying around host plants or feeding on nectar. They are typically more active in sunny areas, and nectar-rich flowers can be a good place to spot them during the day. In colder weather, they may be found basking on sunlit surfaces.
Are Cambridge blue harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Cambridge blue
Discover the hidden benefits of insects
Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Cambridge blue is attracted to flowers by their vivid colors and unique shapes, which signal ample nectar and pollen. While feeding on these resources, cambridge blue inadvertently transports pollen, contributing to plant reproduction.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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