Arhopala epimete is a species of [[butterfly]] belonging to the family [[Lycaenidae]], the gossamer-winged butterflies. It is commonly known as the Large Metallic Oakblue or Metallic Oakblue.
Taxonomy
- [[Kingdom]]: [[Animalia]] (Animals)
- [[Phylum]]: [[Arthropoda]] (Arthropods)
- [[Class]]: [[Insecta]] (Insects)
- [[Order]]: [[Lepidoptera]] (Butterflies and Moths)
- [[Family]]: [[Lycaenidae]] (Gossamer-winged butterflies)
- [[Genus]]: ''[[Arhopala]]''
- [[Species]]: ''A. epimete''
Description
- Size: ''Arhopala epimete'' is a medium-sized butterfly within its genus.
- Wings: The most distinctive feature of this species is the brilliant iridescent blue or blue-green coloration on the upperside of the wings, particularly in males, which gives it a striking metallic sheen. Females typically exhibit a broader dark brown or black border on the forewing, with the iridescent blue restricted to the central areas. The underside of the wings is generally duller, ranging from grey-brown to buff, and is marked with a series of darker spots, dashes, or bands, often outlined with white. The hindwings may possess one or two short, filamentous tails.
- Sexual Dimorphism: Males are usually more intensely iridescent and have narrower dark borders on the upper wings compared to females.
Distribution and Habitat
- Geographic Range: ''Arhopala epimete'' is widely distributed across various parts of Southeast Asia. Its range includes countries such as [[Malaysia]] (both Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo), [[Singapore]], [[Thailand]], [[Indonesia]] (e.g., Sumatra, Java, Borneo), and the [[Philippines]].
- Habitat: This species typically inhabits tropical lowland forests, where it can be found in primary and secondary growth areas. It is often seen in forest clearings, along forest edges, and in degraded forest patches. Adults are known for their fast flight and are frequently observed basking in sunlit areas.
Life Cycle
- Larval Host Plants: The larvae (caterpillars) of ''Arhopala epimete'' are polyphagous, feeding on a variety of plant species. Recorded host plants often belong to the families [[Fabaceae]] (legumes) and [[Sapindaceae]]. Specific genera reported include ''Saraca'', ''Gluta'', ''Litsea'', and ''Shorea''. Like many members of the Lycaenidae family, the larvae may exhibit [[myrmecophily]], forming a symbiotic relationship with ants that protect them from predators in exchange for honeydew.
- Pupa: The pupa is typically cryptic, blending in with its surroundings to avoid detection.
- Adult: Adult butterflies feed on nectar from various flowering plants and may also visit sap flows or rotting fruit.