Common Flash
Common NameCommon Flash
Scientific NameRapala iarbus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)33
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, orange, black
HabitatOpen forests, forest edges, scrubland, gardens
Geographic RangeSouth Asia, Southeast Asia (e.g., India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
Host PlantsAcacia, Bridelia, Ixora, Lantana, Mangifera indica, Nephelium lappaceum, Schleichera oleosa, Terminalia paniculata
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are slug-shaped and feed on young leaves or flowers. Pupation occurs on the host plant or nearby.
Identification TipsLook for the plain greyish-brown underside, the distinct black eyespot with an orange ring on the hindwing, and the two slender tails. Males have iridescent blue or purple uppersides.
Description
A small butterfly with a plain greyish-brown underside, featuring a prominent black eyespot ringed with orange and two slender tails on each hindwing.
