Cornelian
Common NameCornelian
Scientific NameDeudorix epijarbas
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsbrown, black, orange
HabitatForests, forest edges, gardens, orchards
Geographic RangeSouth Asia, Southeast Asia, East Asia (e.g., India, Sri Lanka, China, Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia)
Host PlantsLitchi chinensis, Dimocarpus longan, Punica granatum, Acacia spp., Schleichera oleosa
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple broods
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, and larvae bore into fruits or seeds to feed, often causing damage to crops like lychee and longan. Pupation occurs within the fruit or on the plant.
Identification TipsLook for the dull brown underside with subtle white striations and the distinctive black spot with an orange halo on the hindwing. Males are easily identified by their bright orange-red upperside.
Description
A small to medium-sized butterfly with a dull brown underside, featuring faint white transverse lines and a prominent black spot ringed with orange on the hindwing. Males have a brilliant orange-red upperside.
