Vivid Pierrot
Common NameVivid Pierrot
Scientific NameTarucus theophrastus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Primary Colorsblue, white, brown
HabitatDry, rocky areas, scrubland, open woodlands, wadis, oases, gardens
Geographic RangeNorth Africa, Arabian Peninsula, Middle East, parts of South Asia (India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka)
Host PlantsZiziphus jujuba, Ziziphus spina-christi
Flight PeriodYear-round in warmer regions; spring to autumn elsewhere
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are flattened and slug-like, feeding on *Ziziphus* leaves, and are often myrmecophilous (associated with ants). Pupae are short and stout.
Identification TipsLook for the unique checkered pattern of dark spots on a white background on the underside of the wings, combined with its small size and iridescent blue upperside (if visible).
Description
A small butterfly with iridescent blue uppersides, particularly in males, and a distinctive white underside marked with a bold, checkered pattern of dark brown or black spots.
