Introduction
There are at least 1038 known species of Grass Skippers ( Hesperiinae ) found in the neotropical region. Among these are several genera in which the butterflies are dark in colour, with the veins on the underside picked out in a contrasting paler shade. These include Apaustus, Callimormus, Lento, Euphyes, Flacilla, Ludens, Molo, Parphorus, Peba, Phlebodes, Radiatus, Venas, Virga and Vehilius. To distinguish between the genera it is necessary to study the venation, and the markings between the veins. In some genera / species the spaces are devoid of markings, while in others there are pale streaks, dashes or spots, in various configurations.
There are 3 species in the genus Apaustus, distributed variously from Nicaragua to Ecuador, Guyana and the Upper Amazon.
Apaustus gracilis is a common and widespread butterfly found from Nicaragua to Ecuador.
Habitats
This species can be found in almost any grassy habitat including riverbanks, forest glades, edges and clearings, fields and pastures at elevations between about 400-1600m.
Lifecycle
To be completed.
Adult behaviour
The butterflies are most often found during overcast weather, when they sit with wings held erect, on low herbage.
