About Lycaena bleusei Oberthür, 1884
Lycaena bleusei, commonly known as the Iberian sooty copper, is a butterfly species belonging to the family Lycaenidae and subfamily Lycaeninae. This species is found in Portugal and Spain, which are located in Europe. Its wingspan measures 28–30 mm, equal to 1.1–1.2 inches. In comparison to the related species Lycaena tityrus, the upper side of this butterfly’s wings is brighter, with more prominent yellow variegation. The hindwing has a short triangular tail, and the upperside bears a strong blue sheen. On female individuals, the black spots of the forewing stand out strikingly against a bright tawny (fauve) base wing colour. This butterfly flies from late March to November, with flight timing varying based on location. The larvae of Lycaena bleusei feed on Rumex acetosa, Rumex acetosella, Rumex crispus, and other dock species. Most populations of this species are located in central Spain and central-northern Portugal. In this region, the species is a specialist of meadows that dry out over the summer, a habitat preference that differs from that of its sister species Lycaena tityrus.
