Insect · GBIF taxon 1933649
African Grass Blue
Zizeeria knysnaAlso known as Dark Grass Blue
African grass blues flit low over lawns, pastures, and sunlit paths, staying just inches above ground level. Males display bright violet-blue upper wings trimmed with dark borders, while females wear subdued pale brown with subtle blue basal flushes. Caterpillars feed on low-growing legumes such as clover and medic, often tended by ants that defend them in exchange for honeydew.
ButterflyTinyLow-Flying
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Flower Nectar
- Clover Leaves
- Medicago Leaves
Predators
- Spiders
- Praying Mantises
- Insectivorous Birds
ThreatsWidespread herbicide application and aggressive mowing
HabitatsLawns, grassy meadows, pastures, and warm disturbed soil
Life span2 to 4 weeks as adult
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyLycaenidae
- SpeciesZizeeria knysna
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Patience: Approach slowly on your knees since adults stay within inches of grassy ground.
- Sunlight: Look on bright morning days when males bask with their wings spread open.
Sister Species Close Relative 
Family Member Charles J. Sharp / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
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