Cycad blue
Common NameCycad blue
Scientific NameChilades pandava
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsbrown, white, blue, black, orange
HabitatGardens, parks, forests, and areas where cycads are present
Geographic RangeSouth and Southeast Asia, parts of Oceania (including Australia, Guam, Hawaii)
Host PlantsCycas revoluta, Cycas circinalis, Cycas rumphii, various other Cycas species
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates, otherwise multiple broods from spring to autumn
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on young cycad leaves, often causing significant damage. They are myrmecophilous, associating with ants. Pupation occurs on the host plant or nearby vegetation.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the distinctive wavy white markings on the brown underside, black spots with orange crescents on the hindwing, and its strong association with cycad plants. Males have a vibrant blue upperside.
Description
A small butterfly with an iridescent blue upperside (males) and a brown underside marked with wavy white stripes and black spots with orange crescents near the hindwing margin.
