Rayed Blue
Common NameRayed Blue
Scientific NameChilades lajus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsbrown, white, black
HabitatOpen scrub, dry deciduous forests, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeIndian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, parts of China
Host PlantsZiziphus mauritiana, Acacia nilotica, Mimosa pudica
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on young leaves or flower buds of host plants. Larvae are often myrmecophilous, and pupation occurs on the host plant or nearby.
Identification TipsKey features for identification are the pale brown underside with distinct white-ringed black spots and the prominent white 'rays' on the hindwing.
Description
A small butterfly with a pale brown underside, adorned with rows of black spots encircled by white, and prominent white streaks or 'rays' radiating from the base on the hindwing.
