Tropical Fire Ant vs Gray Hairstreak
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Tropical Fire Ant | Gray Hairstreak |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Solenopsis geminata | Strymon melinus |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Formicidae | Lycaenidae |
| Size | 2-6 mm | 22-35 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Grasslands | Grasslands |
| Diet | Seed Feeders | Fruit Feeders |
| Regions | Pantropical | Throughout the United States, southern Canada, and into Central America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Tropical Fire Ant
A pantropical fire ant with large-headed major workers specialized for seed milling. It is one of the oldest known invasive ant species, spread globally through colonial trade routes.
Did You Know?
It was likely transported around the world in soil ballast of Spanish galleons during the 16th century.
Gray Hairstreak
One of the most widespread hairstreaks in North America with slate-gray wings and a bright orange spot near its tail. It uses a remarkably wide range of host plants.
Did You Know?
Its caterpillars feed on plants from over 20 different families, making it one of the most generalist butterfly larvae in North America.