Common Silverline
Common NameCommon Silverline
Scientific NameCigaritis vulcanus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyAphnaeinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsorange, white, black
HabitatOpen country, scrubland, forest edges, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeIndian subcontinent, Southeast Asia (India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia)
Host PlantsAcacia, Ziziphus, Ixora, Canthium
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple broods
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are myrmecophilous, meaning they have a symbiotic relationship with ants, which protect them from predators. They feed on a variety of host plants.
Identification TipsLook for the prominent orange and white striped pattern on the upperside of the wings. The underside features characteristic metallic silver lines and often small tails on the hindwings.
Description
A small butterfly characterized by its striking orange and white striped wings on the upperside, often with black markings. The underside is paler with similar patterns and distinctive metallic silver lines.
