Japanese Oakblue vs Silky Lacewing
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Japanese Oakblue | Silky Lacewing |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Arhopala japonica | Psychopsis illidgei |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Neuroptera |
| Family | Lycaenidae | Psychopsidae |
| Size | 30-40 mm wingspan | 30-50 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Forests | Forests |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Omnivores |
| Regions | East Asia, Japan | Oceania |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
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.
Silky Lacewing
A beautiful Australian lacewing with large, rounded wings covered in intricate patterns resembling tree bark. It rests with wings flat against surfaces for camouflage.
Did You Know?
Silky lacewings belong to an ancient family with fossils dating back to the Jurassic period, over 160 million years ago.