Common Pierrot
Common NameCommon Pierrot
Scientific NameCastalius rosimon
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)27.5
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, black
HabitatOpen country, gardens, forest clearings, scrubland, often near host plants.
Geographic RangeSouth Asia (India, Sri Lanka), Southeast Asia (Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines).
Host PlantsZiziphus mauritiana, Ziziphus oenoplia, Ziziphus rugosa, Acacia, Cassia, Kalanchoe pinnata
Flight PeriodThroughout the year in tropical regions, with peaks during monsoon season.
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on young leaves or shoots of host plants. Larvae are slug-like, green, and often tended by ants. Pupae are green or brown, attached to a leaf or stem.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its unique black-and-white spotted pattern, resembling a 'pierrot' costume. The underside, as seen in the image, displays a clear white ground color with numerous irregular black spots and a distinct black submarginal line.
Description
A small, delicate butterfly characterized by its striking white wings densely covered with irregular black spots and a prominent black marginal band, particularly visible on the underside.
