Desert Silverline
Common NameDesert Silverline
Scientific NameCigaritis zohra
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsorange, black, brown, white
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, desert edges, wadis, rocky areas
Geographic RangeNorth Africa, Middle East
Host PlantsAcacia tortilis, Acacia raddiana, Ziziphus
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants. Larvae are myrmecophilous, often associated with ants, which tend to them. Pupation occurs near the host plant.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include the vibrant orange upperside with black spots and the distinctive mottled brown underside with a prominent white, often silver-edged, arrowhead-shaped mark on the hindwing. The angular wing shape is also characteristic.
Description
A small butterfly characterized by bright orange uppersides marked with black spots, and mottled brown and grey undersides featuring a prominent white, arrowhead-shaped mark on the hindwing.
