African Line Blue
Common NameAfrican Line Blue
Scientific NameCacyreus lingeus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white, black
HabitatSavannas, grasslands, open woodlands, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSub-Saharan Africa
Host PlantsGeranium, Pelargonium, Vigna, Dolichos, Crotalaria
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; multiple broods in warmer months elsewhere
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, typically on flowers or buds. Larvae feed on flowers and developing seed pods, and pupation occurs on the host plant or nearby vegetation. Some larvae may have myrmecophilous associations.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the distinctive wavy white lines on the grey-brown underside of the wings, and the two prominent black spots on the hindwing near the tornus. Males typically have blue upper sides, while females are brown.
Description
A small butterfly with greyish-brown undersides adorned with intricate white wavy lines and two prominent black spots near the hindwing tornus. Its body is hairy and light grey.
