Butterfly populations are a very good indicator of the health of an area's ecosystem !!
Heliophorus epicles is found at elevations between 600 and 2100 meters above sea level, they have also been spotted as low as 200 meters. As a common butterfly, they can be found in various environments such as forests, woodlands, and gardens, often inhabiting roadside verges, expansive grassy forest paths, or old quarries converting back to grassland and scrub.
They tend to remain close to the ground and can be observed along forest trails and clearings.
Males of this species can be identified by their prominent forewing apex, straight termen, deep glossy purple upper side, and either a lack of discal markings on the underside or the presence of minimal dots between the base and the red marginal region.
They show sexual dimorphism in which the males have a purplish blue patch on the dorsal side of the forewing while the females do not.
The dorsal side of the wings boast deep purple and metallic blue hues, evoking the precious gemstone they are named after.
These colors transition and sparkle in the light, granting the butterfly a spellbinding and otherworldly presence.
Beneath the wings lies a stunning blend of yellow, red, black, and white.
Both genders share a similar appearance, although the female displays larger orange markings on her forewing.
On the other hand, the wing's ventral side exhibits distinct coloration.
Showing a mix of white, gray, and black, the hind wings are embellished with elaborate designs and markings.
These patterns heighten the butterfly's allure while also functioning as camouflage, allowing it to seamlessly blend into its environment and escape potential predators.
Males are highly territorial and aggressively protect their domain.
When two males encounter each other, they partake in an energetic aerial display, spiraling and weaving in tight loops until one finally falls behind, allowing the other to return to his resting spot.
The defeated male, however seldom learns from this experience and frequently re enters the victor's territory, leading to multiple pursuits.
Although the Purple Sapphire butterfly is not currently considered endangered, it faces various threats due to habitat loss, deforestation, and the impacts of climate change.
Avg. wingspan: 28 - 34 cm / 1.1 – 1.4 “.
Diet: larvae eat Various species of host plants such as types of Prunus or Polygonaceae plants, such as Buckwheat.
Diet: adults take nectar from flowers including Lantana, Asteraceae species, Buddleja, and Ixora. Males also settle on damp soil, sometimes in groups of up to half a dozen, to take salt and minerals from ground moisture.
Family: Lycaenidae
