Japanese Oakblue
Common NameJapanese Oakblue
Scientific NameArhopala ganesa
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan
HabitatForests, woodland edges, often near oak trees
Geographic RangeEast Asia (Japan, Korea, China, Taiwan)
Host PlantsQuercus species (oaks)
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on oak leaves. Like many Lycaenidae, they may have a symbiotic relationship with ants.
Identification TipsLook for the cryptic brown underside pattern with distinct wavy lines and small spots. The upperside, if visible, is a striking iridescent blue. It typically lacks prominent hindwing tails.
Description
A small to medium-sized butterfly with a cryptic brown underside featuring wavy darker lines and small spots. The upperside is typically iridescent blue.
