Confirmation on a Small blue ID please.

[Vixpix]

I took this at Pembrey in South Wales and i think it's a Small blue but i noticed that it seems to lack the usual line of spots on the underside of the wings although there is a very faint line of spots near the wing edge. Is this an aberration or is it something else?
Vic.

[Piers]

Hi Vic,

It's an aberration called caeca; meaning 'blind'. Small Blue are extremely variable in their underside spotting and individuals are often missing spots or have spots that are greatly reduced.

You were lucky to find one of these though, it's a fabulous example.

Felix.

[Vixpix]

Many thanks Felix
I did have a look on the home page to ID it but couldn't find any photos of aberrations under Small blue. You're welcome to use this shot there if it helps!
Regards
Vic.

[millerd]

Here's one with nearly no spots, from Totternhoe earlier this year. Not as good as the one posted above!

Dave

[Piers]

It's still a great picture of a very interesting specimen Dave.

Felix.

[millerd]

Thanks, Felix!

Dave

[Padfield]

Another variation on the theme:



That was in Switzerland in 2007. There's an outside chance it's osiris, not minimus, but I think it's minimus. It was raining and I didn't disturb it.

Guy