The Lycaenidae are the second-largest family of butterflies, with about 6000 species worldwide, whose members are also called gossamer-winged butterflies. They are 40% of the known butterflies.

 

The family is traditionally divided into the subfamilies of the blues, the coppers, the hairstreaks, and the harvesters.

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Adults are small, under 5 cm usually, and brightly colored, sometimes with a metallic gloss. The male's forelegs are reduced in size and lack claws.  Adult individuals often have hairy antenna-like tails.