Zebra Blue
Common NameZebra Blue
Scientific NameLeptotes plinius
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, brown, black
HabitatGardens, open fields, scrublands, forest edges
Geographic RangeAfrica, Asia (Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia), Australia
Host PlantsPlumbago zeylanica, Indigofera, Crotalaria, Sesbania
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple broods in temperate areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant buds or flowers. Larvae feed on flowers and young shoots, often attended by ants. Pupation occurs on the host plant or nearby vegetation.
Identification TipsLook for the striking white and dark brown striped pattern on the underside of the wings, especially the hindwings, which also feature two distinct black spots near the tail.
Description
A small butterfly characterized by its distinctive zebra-like pattern of white and dark brown bands on the underside of its wings, with two prominent black eyespots on the hindwings.
