Black Arches vs Common Blue Butterfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Black Arches Common Blue Butterfly
Scientific Name Lymantria monacha Polyommatus icarus
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Erebidae Lycaenidae
Size 40-55 mm wingspan 28-36 mm wingspan
Habitat Forests Grasslands
Diet Omnivores Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe, temperate Asia, Japan Europe, North Africa, Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Black Arches

A striking moth with white wings boldly marked with black zigzag lines and a pink-flushed abdomen. It can occasionally erupt in huge outbreaks that defoliate conifer forests.

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Did You Know?

During outbreaks in central Europe, caterpillar frass falling from trees sounds like rainfall.

Common Blue Butterfly

A small butterfly where males are vivid violet-blue and females are brown with orange spots. It is the most widespread blue butterfly in Europe.

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Did You Know?

Its caterpillars secrete a sweet honeydew that attracts ants, which in turn protect them from predators.