The Southern Brown Argus (Aricia cramera) is a small, brown Lycaenidae butterfly found in Southern Europe, North Africa, the Canary Islands, and Mediterranean islands, typically inhabiting hot, dry, flowery areas. It features chocolate-brown wings with bright orange spots and a white fringe, often mistaken for the common blue.
Key Characteristics and Biology
Appearance: Wingspan of 25–31mm. The upper sides are dark brown with a distinct band of orange spots (lunules) along the edges, which are often bolder and more complete than the similar Aricia agestis. The under-sides are a pale brown with black spots surrounded by white rings and orange lunules.
Distribution: Primarily found in Spain, Portugal, North Africa (Morocco, Tunisia), the Canary Islands, and parts of the Mediterranean.
Habitat: Prefers sunny, dry, and rocky locations, including grasslands, scrubland, and cultivated areas.
Lifecycle: The larvae feed on various Geranium species and other plants, such as Erodium and Helianthemum. It is multi-brooded, with adults flying from April to October, or even year-round in the Canary Islands.
Similar Species: It is very similar to the Brown Argus (Aricia agestis), but the Southern Brown Argus typically has a darker underside ground color and larger, more intense orange spots.
This butterfly is generally common in its range and, like its relative the Brown Argus, is known for being highly mobile.
