Description:

Chilades lajus, commonly known as the Small Cupid, is a species of butterfly in the family Lycaenidae. It is a small-sized butterfly with a wingspan of approximately 20-30 mm. The upper-side of the wings are bright blue with black markings, while the underside is pale blue with darker blue markings. The species is found in forests, grasslands, and wetlands in Asia, including India, China, and Southeast Asia. Adults feed on nectar from flowers, while larvae feed on various plants, including leaves and stems. Chilades lajus is a striking species, known for its bright blue color and delicate pattern. The species is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, but its habitats are threatened by deforestation, habitat destruction, and climate change. Conservation efforts are necessary to protect this and other butterfly species.