Common Imperial Blue
Common NameCommon Imperial Blue
Scientific NameJalmenus evagoras
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsblue, grey, brown, orange, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, eucalyptus forests, areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEastern Australia
Host PlantsAcacia mearnsii, Acacia dealbata, Acacia decurrens, Acacia parramattensis
Flight PeriodSeptember to May (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are myrmecophilous, meaning they have a symbiotic relationship with ants (typically *Iridomyrmex* species) which protect them from predators in exchange for a sugary secretion.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive iridescent blue-grey upperwings with dark brown borders, prominent hindwing tails, and orange/black markings near the tails. Often found in association with *Acacia* host plants and attendant ants.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with iridescent blue-grey central wings bordered by dark brown, featuring orange and black spots and prominent tails on the hindwings.
