Ribbe, 1910
Spanish Argus
Description:
The Spanish Argus is found in alpine and sub-alpine grasslands, on rocky slopes with patches of grassy vegetation, and on scree slopes with scanty plant growth. In the Sierra Nevada, it occurs above 2000 m on rocky plains of dark-coloured slate with a low-growing vegetation.
The eggs are laid on different kinds of storksbill (Erodium spp.). The caterpillars eat the leaves and hibernate when still small. They are attended by various ant species.
The Spanish Argus has mostly only one generation a year, but those living at lower altitudes, possibly have two.
Habitat:
Alpine grasslands
Dry siliceous grasslands
Screes
Inland cliffs and exposed rocks
Similar species:
Aricia cramera
Aricia agestis
Aricia artaxerxes