Butterflies of
Africa
Nigerian Pierid Blue
Larinopoda aspidos
DRUCE, 1890
Family - LYCAENIDAE
subfamily -
LIPTENINAE
Tribe - LIPTENINI
Larinopoda aspidos,
Amedzofe, Likpe Hills, Ghana / Togo border
Introduction
The genus
Larinopoda comprises of 7 species, all of which are
white, with dark borders, and have one or more dark spots on the hindwings. All
species have golden yellow legs, and the distinctive thin, upturned labial palpi
that are typical of the subfamily Lipteninae.
Larinopoda aspidos is found in the Volta region of Ghana, and in Togo
and Nigeria.
Habitats
This is a rainforest species, but can be found in quite disturbed areas such as
clearings, and along roadsides and logging trails.
Larinopoda aspidos,
Wli Falls, Ghana / Togo border
Lifecycle
The lifecycle is unknown, but in common
with other Lipteninae the larvae probably feed on algae or microscopic fungi
growing on tree trunks, and are likely to have a symbiotic relationship with
ants.
Adult behaviour
This lovely little butterfly prefers to fly in hazy or slightly
overcast conditions, at which time it can often be seen sitting on
tendrils with extrafloral nectaries. In common with other members
of the Lipteninae, at dusk the adults cluster together to roost
overnight in groups of 3 or 4, suspended from thin dry twigs,
normally at a height of less than a metre above ground level.
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