Introduction
Almost all neotropical Theclinae species are placed in the Eumaeini. The tribe is not particularly well represented in collections, so until fairly recently a high percentage remained unstudied, and were inappropriately filed away in the ‘convenience’ genus Thecla. Many taxonomists have attempted to rationalise the systematics of the Eumaeini, the most recent being Robbins who published a revision in 2004, reclassifying the taxa into 83 genera. Currently there are 1058 known species. Taking into account their small size, secretive behaviour, and the great similarities between many species, it is estimated that about another 200 species probably remain to be discovered.
Currently there are 33 known species of Erora, of which 13 have only very recently been described to science, and have not yet been allocated a species name. There is no doubt that more await to be discovered. All have metallic green undersides, and bear a filamentous tail on each hindwing, but the underside markings vary considerably from species to species. The Mexican species quaderna for example is pale emerald green with numerous prominent orange crescents and chevrons on the hindwings, whereas gabina, opisena and carla all have bright apple green undersides with broken ‘hairstreak’ lines, and black-pupilled red spots at the tornus.
Erora subflorens is distributed from Mexico to Colombia and Venezuela.
Habitats
This species is found in tropical and subtropical forests, and is usually observed in disturbed areas where it can be found on bushes or other low vegetation.
Lifecycle
To be completed.
Adult behaviour
Males perch on stones or low foliage. They have a rapid acrobatic flight that is almost impossible to follow with the eye.