What is the scientific name of the common blue butterfly of Europe?

Polyommatus icarus is the scientific name of the common blue butterfly of Europe.

Polyommatus icarus is one of Europe’s most widespread blue butterflies. Males usually have bright blue upper wings, while females are often browner and may show orange markings near the wing margins. Individual appearance can vary with region and sex.

The species belongs to the family Lycaenidae, commonly called the blues, coppers, and hairstreaks. Its caterpillars feed on legumes such as bird’s-foot trefoil and can interact with ants, which may protect larvae in exchange for sugary secretions.

“Common blue” is a useful everyday name but can cause confusion because several regional blue butterflies have similar names. The scientific name Polyommatus icarus identifies this particular species.