Barker's Smoky Blue
Common NameBarker's Smoky Blue
Scientific NameCandalides hyacinthina
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, blue, orange, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, heathlands, forest edges
Geographic RangeEastern Australia
Host PlantsAcacia, Cassia, Daviesia, Pultenaea, Indigofera
Flight PeriodAll year in warmer regions, spring to autumn in cooler regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are typically green or brown, often myrmecophilous (associated with ants), and feed on the leaves of various legumes. Pupation occurs on or near the host plant.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive orange and black eyespot on the hindwing underside. The smoky blue dorsal coloration, though not fully visible in this image, is also a key identifier when the wings are open.
Description
A small butterfly with a dull brown to tan underside, featuring a prominent orange patch with a black spot on the hindwing. The dorsal side of the wings is typically a smoky blue color.
