Nacaduba

Nacaduba is a genus of butterflies in the family Lycaenidae, commonly known as lineblues. These butterflies are found in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Australia.

Description:

Nacaduba butterflies are typically small, with a wingspan ranging from 2 to 3 centimeters. The uppersides of the wings are often a pale blue or silvery blue, while the undersides are usually a pale brown or grey, marked with fine lines, spots, and sometimes a tornal lobe and tail. Sexual dimorphism is common, with females often having broader dark borders on the uppersides of their wings.

Distribution and Habitat:

Nacaduba species are widely distributed across the Indo-Australian region, including India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, Australia, and some Pacific islands. They inhabit a variety of environments, including forests, woodlands, gardens, and open areas.

Life Cycle and Diet:

The larvae of Nacaduba butterflies feed on a wide variety of host plants, often belonging to the families Leguminosae, Sapindaceae, and Rhamnaceae. They are known to often associate with ants (myrmecophily). The caterpillars secrete a sugary substance that attracts ants, which in turn provide protection from predators and parasitoids. The pupae are typically attached to the host plant.

Taxonomy:

The genus Nacaduba is part of the subfamily Polyommatinae within the family Lycaenidae. There are several species within the genus, including:

• Nacaduba beroe
• Nacaduba pactolus
• Nacaduba hermus
• Nacaduba cyanea
• Nacaduba biocellata

(Note: this is not an exhaustive list)

Conservation:

Most Nacaduba species are not considered to be under immediate threat of extinction. However, habitat loss and degradation due to deforestation, urbanization, and agricultural expansion can negatively impact populations in certain areas.