Calliandra, Blue Butterflies & Ants (part 1)

(click on a photo to enlarge)

Calliandra californica, commonly known as Baja Fairy Duster, grows in our courtyard. It has delicate, feathery leaves and brilliant red bottlebrush-shaped flowers. It is also the caterpillar host plant for some members of the Lycaenidae or Gossamer-wings Family of butterflies.

Calliandra californica (Baja Fairy Duster)

I’ve observed three closely related species nectaring on the Calliandra: Reakirt’s Blue (Hemiargus isola), Ceraunus Blue (Hemiargus ceraunus) and Marine Blue (Leptotes marina). All three are common and fly year-round (weather permitting) in SE Arizona. Two of the above species were observed ovipositing (egg-laying) on the flower buds — Ceraunus Blue and Marine Blue. It is those two species that we’ll follow here from egg to adult. Since the eggs appear to be identical in shape and pattern, the following photo represents both species although they are actually Ceraunus Blue eggs. Notice how multiple, saucer-shaped eggs are deposited among the small, developing flower buds.

Ceraunus Blue (Hemiargus ceraunus) Eggs

Here’s another look at some eggs with a closer view showing the structure and intricate pattern of the egg.

Close-up of Ceraunus Blue Egg

It only takes few days for the egg to produce a tiny caterpillar, so stay tuned!