Common Cerulean
Image: Vengolis (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Common NameCommon Cerulean
Scientific NameJamides celeno
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsgrey, white, black, orange
HabitatOpen areas, forest edges, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeIndian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, parts of Australia
Host PlantsCajanus cajan, Pongamia pinnata, Ziziphus mauritiana, Abrus precatorius
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae feed on leaves, flowers, or young pods, often attended by ants. Pupation occurs on the host plant or nearby.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive underside pattern of white bands and black spots on a greyish-brown background. The prominent orange-ringed black spot on the hindwing is a key feature.
Description
A small butterfly with a greyish-brown underside, distinctly marked with white transverse bands and rows of black spots. The hindwing features a prominent orange-ringed black spot near the tornus.
