Silver-studded Blue
Common NameSilver-studded Blue
Scientific NamePlebejus argus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblue, grey, orange, black, metallic green
HabitatHeathlands, dry grasslands, coastal dunes, open woodlands, moorlands
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia, and parts of North Africa
Host PlantsLotus corniculatus, Calluna vulgaris, Ulex europaeus, Genista tinctoria
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are myrmecophilous, associating with ants that protect them in exchange for honeydew. They feed on various legumes and heaths, overwintering as an egg.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the metallic blue-green spots ('silver studs') on the underside of the hindwings, typically within a row of orange spots. Males are bright blue above, while females are brownish with variable blue scaling.
Description
A small butterfly with iridescent blue uppersides in males, and brown with blue scaling in females. The underside is greyish-brown with black spots ringed in white, and a distinctive row of orange spots along the hindwing margin, each often accompanied by a metallic blue-green 'stud'.
