Esper's Marbled White
Common NameEsper's Marbled White
Scientific NameMelanargia russiae
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Primary Colorswhite, black
HabitatDry grasslands, steppes, rocky slopes, open woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern Europe, Central Asia, Caucasus region
Host Plantsvarious grasses (e.g., Bromus, Poa, Festuca)
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on grass blades. Larvae feed on grasses and overwinter as small caterpillars before pupating on the ground.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its intricate black and white marbled pattern, especially the distinct row of black-ringed ocelli on the underside of the hindwings.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a striking black and white marbled pattern on its wings, featuring prominent ocelli (eyespots) on the underside of the hindwings.
