Sahyadri Blue Oakleaf
Common NameSahyadri Blue Oakleaf
Scientific NameKallima horsfieldii
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)80
Primary Colorsblue, teal, dark brown, black, white
HabitatDense evergreen forests, tropical and subtropical forests
Geographic RangeWestern Ghats of India
Host PlantsStrobilanthes callosa, Strobilanthes ixiocephala
Flight PeriodYear-round, peaking during monsoon and post-monsoon seasons
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid individually on host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny and feed on the leaves, then pupate into a chrysalis before emerging as the adult butterfly.
Identification TipsThe brilliant iridescent blue upperside with the white forewing spot is characteristic. When at rest with wings closed, its perfect dead-leaf mimicry is unmistakable for the genus Kallima.
Description
This butterfly displays a striking iridescent blue and teal upperside with broad dark brown to black margins and a prominent white spot near the apex of the forewing. Its underside (not shown) remarkably mimics a dry leaf.
