Introduction
There are 4 species in the genus Nepheronia, all of which are found only in the Afrotropical region.
The upperside of the male Nepheronia thalassina is a very pale blue colour, which reflects sunlight so strongly that it appears to be almost luminescent. The female is white or very pale yellowish, and has black marginal spots on the hindwings, in addition to the black forewing markings found on the male. The underside of both sexes is white, and has a pearly lustre.
Nepheronia thalassina is found from Senegal to Ethiopia and Sudan, and south to South Africa.
Habitats
This species can be found in a wide range of habitats including secondary forest, savannah, thorn scrub, farmland, parks and gardens, at altitudes between sea level and about 1500m.
Lifecycle
The larval foodplant is Hippocratea ( Celastraceae ).
Adult behaviour
Both sexes fly rapidly along forest edge habitats, pausing for a moment here and there to nectar at flowers. When feeding they usually hold the wings half open.
