Hypochrysops digglesii

(Silky Jewel)

Description

The larvae, which are attended by ants in the genus Crematogaster, feed on species of Loranthaceae particularly Amyema bifurcata, Amyema miquelli, Amyema sanguineum and Dendrophthoe glabrescens. Mature larvae have a dark brown body with dull orange brown markings as well as pale markings on several segments. Adults iridescent blue, darker near the margins, veins black; lower surface pale grey with pale brown markings and some dull red spots particularly on the hind wing.