Striped Pierrot
Common NameStriped Pierrot
Scientific NameTarucus nara
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, pale grey, dark brown, black
HabitatDry deciduous forests, scrubland, open country, gardens
Geographic RangeIndian subcontinent (India, Sri Lanka), parts of Southeast Asia
Host PlantsZiziphus jujuba, Ziziphus mauritiana, Grewia
Flight PeriodYear-round in warmer regions, multiple broods
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants. Larvae are typically flattened and slug-like, often myrmecophilous (associated with ants). Pupation occurs on the host plant or nearby.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the prominent dark brown/black striped and spotted pattern on a pale underside, and the presence of a small tail and a row of submarginal black spots (some with metallic blue) on the hindwing.
Description
A small butterfly with a pale grey to white underside, heavily marked with distinct dark brown or black stripes and spots, including a row of submarginal spots on the hindwing, some with metallic blue scales.
