(Denis and Schiffermüller, 1775)
Brown Argus
Description:
The Brown Argus occurs on warm grasslands, in heaths, and in dunes. It can also be found on sandy, pioneer vegetation, as for example in sand-pits, or where houses are being built. It lays its eggs on small crane's-bill (Geranium spp.) and rockroses (Helianthemum spp.). It may build up numerous, small populations.
At first, the small caterpillars only scrape off the undermost layer of the leaves making little "windows" in the leaves. Later, the bigger caterpillars feed on the whole leaf. They are often attended by Lasius and Myrmica ants. The caterpillars can hibernate at any stage. Pupation takes place in the litter layer.
The Brown Argus has two to three generations depending on the geographical location.
Habitat:
Dry siliceous grasslands
Dry calcareous grasslands
Mesophile grasslands
Similar species:
Aricia cramera
Aricia artaxerxes
Aricia morronensis