Balkan Marbled White
Common NameBalkan Marbled White
Scientific NameMelanargia larissa
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Primary Colorsblack, white, grey
HabitatDry, rocky grasslands, open woodlands, scrubland
Geographic RangeBalkan Peninsula, Turkey, Middle East
Host PlantsBrachypodium, Festuca, Poa
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on grass blades. Larvae feed on grasses and overwinter as partially grown caterpillars, pupating on the ground among grass roots.
Identification TipsIdentified by its intricate black and white marbled pattern on the wings, with more extensive black markings on the upperside compared to some other Marbled Whites. Small ocelli may be visible on the hindwings, especially on the underside.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a distinctive black and white marbled or checkered pattern across both forewings and hindwings, and a grey, hairy body.
