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Purple sapphire

Purple sapphire

Heliophorus epicles

A species of Heliophorus

Heliophorus epicles is a butterfly from the Lycaenidae family. The scientific name of the species was first validly published in 1823 by Godart.

General Info About Purple sapphire
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Attributes of Purple sapphire
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
White
Orange
Habitat
roadside; grassy forest track
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from flowers including lantana, asteraceae species, buddleja, and ixora.
Larva Food Source
Various species of host plants; primarily specific types of prunus or polygonaceae plants, such as buckwheat.
Non-poisonous
The Purple sapphire is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Purple sapphire feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Purple sapphire
It occurs in India, Burma, Thailand, West Malaysia, Bhutan, Java, Sumatra, China and Taiwan, but is curiously absent from Borneo.
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Adult Size of Purple sapphire
2 - 3.5 cm
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Predators of Purple sapphire Larvae
Ants, wasps, birds, spiders
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Predators of Adult Purple sapphire
Birds, praying mantises, spiders, rodents
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Interesting Facts About Purple sapphire
The intricate wing patterns of purple sapphire effectively scatter radar waves, rendering them nearly invisible to some of the electronics used for tracking flying insects.
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Scientific Classification of Purple sapphire
Tips for Finding Purple sapphire
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Youth Habitat of Purple sapphire
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Montane Regions
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Habitat Preferences of Purple sapphire Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of purple sapphire are often laid on the underside of host plant leaves, providing a concealed environment. Caterpillars can be found amidst the foliage they feed on, camouflaged and protected from predators. Pupae tend to attach to twigs or leaves, blending in with the vegetation. To locate these stages, search leaf undersides for eggs, inspect leaves and stems for feeding caterpillars, and check for pupae on twigs or leaf surfaces near the host plants. Adult purple sapphire mainly frequent flower-rich habitats for nectar, so meadows and edges of woodlands are optimal for sighting mature specimens, especially during warm, sunny days. Observers should cautiously approach these areas to avoid startling the adults.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Purple sapphire
The suitable time to find adult purple sapphire is during sunny days as they are diurnal and most active in sunlight, often in the late morning to early afternoon.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Purple sapphire
Warm and dry weather conditions are best to find purple sapphire, as wet conditions can reduce their activity and ability to fly.
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How and Where Can You Find Purple sapphire at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of purple sapphire are usually laid singly on host plants. To find them, inspect the leaves and stems of known host plants for small, often colorful eggs.
Larva Larvae of purple sapphire can be found on or near their food plants. They are caterpillars that may have cryptic coloring, so careful examination of the host plants is needed.
Pupal To find pupae, search the area around the host plant. Purple sapphire pupae may be attached to plant stems, leaves or even hidden in leaf litter or soil near the plant.
Adult Adult purple sapphire are butterflies and can be found in habitats such as meadows, forest edges, and gardens. They may be spotted feeding on flower nectar, so flowering plants are good places to search.
Are Purple sapphire harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Purple sapphire
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Hurt Plant

The larva of purple sapphire feed on plants, sucking fluids primarily from leaves and flowers. Depending on the population size, their impact may range from mild to significant, potentially leading to visible discoloration, reduced vigor, and diminished blooming in the host plants.

More Effects of Purple sapphire

Beneficial Effects of Purple sapphire
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar, Accidental Contamination While Feeding On Nectar
Purple sapphire pollinates flowers while seeking nectar for energy. It is attracted by the vivid colors and distinctive shapes of flowers. During feeding, its body inadvertently brushes against pollen, transferring it from flower to flower. An efficient accidental pollinator, purple sapphire contributes to the biodiversity of ecosystems.
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