| Molomo copper | |
|---|---|
 | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Lepidoptera |
| Family: | Lycaenidae |
| Genus: | Aloeides |
| Species: | A. molomo |
| Binomial name | |
| Aloeides molomo | |
| Synonyms | |
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Aloeides molomo, the molomo copper, is a butterfly of the family Lycaenidae. It is found in southern Africa.
This species inhabits grassy areas with bare patches, such as grassy fynbos in the western and eastern cape, or highvield grasslands in other provinces. [3]
The wingspan is 22–33 mm (0.87–1.30 in) for males and 24–35 mm (0.94–1.38 in) for females. Adults are on wing from August to December and from March to April. There are two generations per year. [4] A. m. krooni specimens feature silver spots on the underside of its hindwing. [5]
The males of Aloeidis exhibit territorial behavior, claiming specific areas on road verges and unsurfaced roads where they can counter females and mate. [6] Females have a slower flight than males. [5]
The female oviposits its eggs at the base of Gnidia plants. [7]
The larvae of A. m. krooni feed on Sida ovata .
