Spanish Marbled White
Common NameSpanish Marbled White
Scientific NameMelanargia ines
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorswhite, black, orange
HabitatDry grasslands, rocky slopes, scrubland, open woodland
Geographic RangeIberian Peninsula (Spain, Portugal), southern France, and North Africa (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia)
Host Plantsvarious grasses (Poaceae)
Flight PeriodApril to July
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on grass blades. Larvae feed on grasses and overwinter as caterpillars before pupating on the ground.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its unique black and white marbled pattern, strong black veining, and the presence of small, orange-ringed ocelli (eyespots) on the underside of the hindwings.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a striking black and white marbled pattern on its wings, characterized by prominent black veins and small orange-ringed eyespots on the underside of the hindwings.
