Straight Pierrot
Common NameStraight Pierrot
Scientific NameCaleta roxus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorswhite, black
HabitatOpen forests, forest edges, clearings, gardens, often near water bodies
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia, including India, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines
Host PlantsAcacia spp., Ziziphus spp.
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple broods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically flattened and slug-like, feeding on host plant leaves. They are often myrmecophilous, associating with ants during their development.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include the unique straight black bar across the forewing cell and the overall contrasting black and white pattern on both upper and underside of the wings.
Description
A small butterfly with white wings prominently marked with black. The forewing features a broad black costal and terminal band and a distinctive straight black bar in the cell, while the hindwing has a series of black spots along the margin.
