Introduction
The Grass Blues comprise of several superficially similar genera including Zizeeria, Zizula, Zizina, Pseudozizeeria and Chilades, all of which have representatives on the Indian subcontinent. They are all tiny butterflies – the genus Chilades for example includes the smallest known butterfly species on Earth: the Madagascan Grass Blue Chilades miniscula which has a wingspan of only 9mm.
The genus Pseudozizeeria comprises of a single species maha. It is widely distributed across much of Asia from Iran and Pakistan to China, Korea and Japan.
Habitats
This species is found in open grassy habitats. It is most abundant on the plains, but also commonly occurs on savannah / woodland mosaics, Acacia scrub, and in forest glades and clearings. It can be found at elevations between sea level and about 800m.
Lifecycle
The caterpillars feed on Oxalis ( Oxalidaceae ).
Adult behaviour
The adults nectar avidly at low-growing herbs including Tridax, Boerhavia, Trifolium and Medicago.
