Purple Cerulean
Common NamePurple Cerulean
Scientific NameJamides bochus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsbrown, white, orange, black
HabitatOpen forests, forest edges, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouth Asia, Southeast Asia, parts of Australia
Host PlantsPongamia pinnata, Butea monosperma, Xylia xylocarpa, Saraca asoca
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple broods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant buds or young leaves. Larvae are slug-like, often green or brown, and feed on the host plant. Pupation occurs on the host plant or nearby vegetation.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive dull brown underside with fine white wavy lines and the prominent orange-ringed black eyespot with two tails on the hindwing. Males have an iridescent purple-blue upperside, while females are duller.
Description
This small butterfly has a dull brown underside with intricate white wavy lines across both forewings and hindwings. The hindwing features a prominent orange-ringed black eyespot near the tornus, accompanied by two slender tails.
