Introduction
The genus Cupidopsis comprises of 2 species – cissus and iobates, both of which are widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa.
Cupidopsis iobates ( the Tailed Meadow Blue ) differs in having a narrow orange submarginal band on the hindwings, which are adorned with thin tails. The female of cissus, which is untailed, also has an orange submarginal band on the hindwings, but lacks any blue colouration, the latter being replaced by patches or steaks of greyish-white.
Cupidopsis cissus is distributed throughout sub-Saharan Africa including Madagascar.
Habitats
This species is normally found on grassy hills and open areas within forest which receive moderate to high rainfall, but is occasionally encountered on the savannahs.
Lifecycle
The larvae feed on the flowers of Eriosema, Rhynchosia, and Vigna (Fabaceae).
Adult behaviour
Males can be found flitting from spot to spot along pathways through grassy areas, where they imbibe mineralised moisture from rocks and damp ground. Females are seen less often, usually when basking on grasses in between egg-laying bouts.