Bright Babul Blue
Common NameBright Babul Blue
Scientific NameAzanus ubaldus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Primary Colorspale brown, white, black
HabitatDry scrub, open country, arid and semi-arid regions, areas with Acacia trees
Geographic RangeAfrica, Middle East, South Asia (e.g., India, Sri Lanka)
Host PlantsAcacia nilotica, Acacia modesta, Prosopis cineraria
Flight PeriodYear-round in warmer regions, multiple broods
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on the host plant, larvae feed on leaves and flowers, and pupation occurs on or near the host plant. Larvae are often myrmecophilous, associating with ants.
Identification TipsLook for the pale grayish-brown underside with distinctive white wavy lines and a row of black spots, especially the prominent black spots near the tornus (lower corner) of the hindwing. The small size is also characteristic.
Description
A small butterfly with a pale grayish-brown underside, adorned with intricate white wavy lines and a series of black spots, some ringed with white, particularly prominent on the hindwing. The body is pale blue-grey and hairy.
