Trident Pencil-Blue
Common NameTrident Pencil-Blue
Scientific NameCandalides heathi heathi
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsblue, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, grasslands, heathlands
Geographic RangeSoutheastern Australia (New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania)
Host PlantsPimelea linifolia, Pimelea curviflora
Flight PeriodSeptember to April
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are slug-shaped and green, feeding on the leaves of *Pimelea* species. They are often associated with ants, which protect them from predators.
Identification TipsIdentified by its vibrant blue upperside. The underside of the hindwings typically features distinctive white markings and a 'pencil' mark, though not visible in this dorsal view.
Description
A small butterfly characterized by brilliant iridescent blue upperwings, often with a thin white fringe along the margins.
