Mediterranean Pierrot
Common NameMediterranean Pierrot
Scientific NameTarucus rosaceus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Primary Colorswhite, cream, black, brown
HabitatDry scrubland, wadis, oases, rocky areas, open woodlands
Geographic RangeNorth Africa, Middle East, parts of Asia (e.g., Iran, Pakistan, India)
Host PlantsAcacia nilotica, Acacia tortilis, Acacia gerrardii
Flight PeriodMultiple broods, flying almost year-round in warmer regions; typically spring to autumn in others
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on Acacia species and are often myrmecophilous, forming associations with ants. Pupation typically occurs on the host plant or in nearby vegetation.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its white underside with a distinctive pattern of black spots and wavy lines, particularly the row of submarginal spots on the hindwing, some of which may have metallic blue scales.
Description
A small butterfly with a white or creamy underside adorned with numerous black or dark brown spots and wavy lines. The hindwings often feature small black spots with iridescent blue-green scales near the margin.
