African Clouded Yellow
Common NameAfrican Clouded Yellow
Scientific NameColias electo
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyColiadinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsyellow, orange, green, black
HabitatOpen grasslands, savannas, agricultural fields, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSub-Saharan Africa, including Madagascar
Host PlantsTrifolium, Medicago, Vicia
Flight PeriodMultiple broods throughout the year in warmer regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with a pale lateral stripe. Pupae are green and attached to stems by a silk girdle.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its bright yellow/orange and greenish coloration, the prominent black spot on the forewing upperside, and the white-ringed central spot on the hindwing underside. Males are typically brighter yellow/orange than females.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a vibrant yellow to orange upperside on the forewings, marked with a prominent black spot and a black border, while the hindwings and underside are typically greenish-yellow with a distinctive white-ringed central spot.
