Introduction
The Pyrginae, popularly known as Flats or Spreadwings, are a cosmopolitan subfamily distributed across temperate and tropical habitats throughout the world. In the Americas there are 990 species.
About 580 species are placed within the tribe Pyrgini.
The genera Bolla and Staphylus include a combined total of 82 small dark species with a similar wing shape and an obscure pattern of lighter markings, and often a peppering of grey or yellowish scales. Most, but not all species, also have a series of between 1-6 small hyaline apical spots. In some species including Bolla cupreiceps, Staphylus vulgata and S. ceos the head and palpi are covered in metallic golden or yellow scales.
There are 55 species in the genus Staphylus, variously distributed from Mexico to Paraguay. The illustrated species Staphylus oeta is found from Panama to Argentina.
Habitats
This species occurs at altitudes between about 400-1200m above sea level.
Lifecycle
To be completed.
Adult behaviour
The butterflies are usually encountered singly, and normally seen basking with wings outspread on low foliage.