Copper Jewel
Common NameCopper Jewel
Scientific NameHypochrysops apelles
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsorange, brown, iridescent blue, red
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, coastal areas
Geographic RangeNorthern and eastern Australia (Queensland, New South Wales)
Host PlantsMacaranga, Acacia, Dodonaea
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical areas, multiple broods
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are often myrmecophilous, meaning they are associated with and tended by ants. Eggs are laid singly on host plants.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive iridescent blue-green and red-orange stripes on the underside of the wings, contrasting with a copper-orange ground color. Its small size is also characteristic.
Description
A small butterfly with a striking underside pattern of copper-orange, iridescent blue-green, and red stripes. The upperside is typically iridescent blue.
