Japanese Oakblue vs Fiji Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Japanese Oakblue | Fiji Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Arhopala japonica | Heterallactis baibakoua |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Lycaenidae | Zygaenidae |
| Size | 30-40 mm wingspan | 25-35 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Forests | Forests |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | East Asia, Japan | Oceania (Fiji) |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Near Threatened |
Japanese Oakblue
A beautiful lycaenid butterfly with brilliant metallic blue upperwings and cryptic brown underwings. Found in oak forests where its larvae live in association with ants. Known as 'murasaki-shijimi.'
Did You Know?
The caterpillars produce sweet secretions that attract ants, which then guard them from predators in a mutualistic relationship.
Fiji Moth
A day-flying forester moth endemic to Fiji, with metallic blue-black wings. It is found in native forest where its larvae feed on native vines. The bright metallic colouration suggests it may be chemically defended.
Did You Know?
The metallic blue sheen of this moth's wings is produced by nanoscale structures rather than pigments, making the colour unfadeable even in museum specimens.