Common Bush Blue
Common NameCommon Bush Blue
Scientific NameZizeeria otis
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Primary Colorsblue, brown, grey, white
HabitatOpen grassy areas, scrubland, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeAfrica, Asia (from India to Southeast Asia), Australia
Host PlantsZornia, Indigofera, Trifolium, Medicago, Oxalis
Flight PeriodAll year in tropical regions, multiple broods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves or flower buds. Larvae are typically green and feed on various legumes. Pupation occurs near the ground, often attached to a leaf or stem.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the distinct iridescent blue upperside in males with broad dark margins, and the greyish-brown underside with a characteristic pattern of small dark spots and a clear white fringe on all wings.
Description
A small butterfly with iridescent blue uppersides in males, bordered by broad dark brown margins. Females are duller blue or brownish. The underside is greyish-brown with a series of small dark spots and a prominent white fringe along the wing edges.
