Description
A small 'blue' with a wingspan of 20-30 mm.  The sexes are similar. The upper sides of the wings of both sexes are dark gray brown to slate. On the upper side of the hind wing of the male there is no shot blue, though some specimens do have a trace of it. On the under side hind wing, the central band is more separated from the outer band than in any other species, making the yellow area much wider and a distinctive feature.

Similar species
Ceylon Silverline and the Plumbeous Silverline. More information.

Status, distribution and habitat
It is found all over the island and is the commonest Spindasis. Its numbers peak during the south-west and north-east monsoons. It inhabits scrub land with sparse vegetation, hedge rows and secondary forest.

Habits
A butterfly that is truly difficult to disturb when nectaring on flowers - it is so oblivious to the outside world that it may even be caught with ones bare hands. But like all members of the Spindasis, it takes off explosively when it leaves its perch and is difficult to follow in flight. It loves to feed on the ubiquitous Eupatorium odoratum and is a commonly seen on them. Another favorite source of nectar is Vernonia zeylanica. General information.

Early stages
The eggs are laid on a wide range of plant families and species. These include Leguminosae, Rutaceae, Sapindaceae and Verbenacae. Clerodendron and Ixora are two commonly used plant species. The presence of Crematogaster ants is mandatory for egg laying. The larva is protected by ants, and in return, it provides honey dew.

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