Black-Bordered Babul Blue
Common NameBlack-Bordered Babul Blue
Scientific NameAzanus ubaldus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorscream, white, black
HabitatDry scrub, open woodlands, savannas, areas with acacia trees
Geographic RangeAfrica, Middle East, Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia
Host PlantsAcacia nilotica, Acacia tortilis, Prosopis cineraria
Flight PeriodYear-round in warmer regions, with peaks after monsoons
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on the buds or young leaves of host plants. Larvae feed on flowers and leaves, often exhibiting myrmecophily (association with ants). Pupation occurs on the host plant or nearby vegetation.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the pale underside with numerous black spots, and the prominent black marginal border on the hindwing. Males have iridescent blue uppersides, while females are brownish.
Description
A small butterfly with a pale cream to off-white underside, heavily marked with numerous black spots and a distinct black border along the outer edge of the hindwing.
