Chequered Blue
Common NameChequered Blue
Scientific NameScolitantides tessellata
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblue, grey, black, orange
HabitatDry grasslands, rocky slopes, steppe habitats
Geographic RangeEastern Europe, Central Asia, Southern Siberia, Mongolia, parts of China
Host PlantsAstragalus, Hedysarum, Onobrychis
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on the host plants. Larvae feed on flowers and seeds, often exhibiting myrmecophily (association with ants). Pupation occurs near the ground.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive checkered pattern of black spots on the light grey underside, especially the prominent orange submarginal band on the hindwings. Males have a bright, iridescent blue upperside.
Description
A small butterfly with a light grey underside heavily marked with black spots, featuring a prominent orange submarginal band on the hindwings. Males typically display an iridescent blue upperside.
