Mazarine Blue
Common NameMazarine Blue
Scientific NameCyaniris semiargus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)32
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsgrey-brown, blue, black, white
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, forest clearings, open woodlands
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia, North Africa
Host PlantsTrifolium, Lotus corniculatus, Melilotus, Vicia
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, and larvae feed on leaves and flowers, often forming symbiotic relationships with ants. The species typically overwinters as a larva before pupating near the ground.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic grey-brown underside with prominent black spots ringed in white. Males are easily identified by their deep, iridescent blue uppersides, which lack the orange markings found on some other blue species.
Description
A small butterfly with a grey-brown underside featuring a distinct pattern of black spots, each ringed with white. Males typically display an iridescent blue on their uppersides, while females are brown.
