taxonID	type	description	language	source
0387897B96664224FF3BFB4035A2FAD8.taxon	materials_examined	Type species: Thecla varuna Horsfield, [1829] Type locality: Java (Indonesia)	en	Kc, Sajan, Poel, Piet Van Der, Pariyar, Surendra, Sunar, Aman, Limbu, Mahendra Singh (2025): A review of the genus Rapala Moore, 1881 (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae) of Nepal with insights on little-known species. Zootaxa 5692 (1): 31-56, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2
0387897B96664222FF3BFA023788FCBD.taxon	materials_examined	Type locality: Sumatra (Indonesia) Common Name: Indigo Flash Taxonomic Note: Rapala varuna gebenia Fruhstorfer, 1914 should be a junior synonym of R. v. orseis Hewitson, 1863 as was treated by Evans (1932). Material Examined: NEPAL. Bagmati Province. Makawanpur. Machan Camp, 23. iii. 1991, 215 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂); Harda Khola, 13. ii. 1992, 340 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂). Chitwan. Mahendra Forest, 3. iii. 1986, 200 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂). INDIA. Meghalaya. Khasi Hills, leg. Le Moult, MGCL 1201234, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 93 (MGCL, 1 ♂) (Fig. 2 a). MYANMAR. Nam La. Namtu, 3. xi. 1963, leg. S & L Steinhauser, MGCL 1202185, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 113 (MGCL, 1 ♀) (Fig. 2 b). Wingspan: 28 – 35 mm (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Diagnosis (Figs 2 a, 2 b): Rapala varuna can be distinguished from congeners in Nepal by its wide postdiscal bands on the ventral wings and the cell-end bar on the ventral hindwing, which often connects to the postdiscal band. While R. varuna is generally distinct from its congeners, it can sometimes be confused with Deudorix epijarbas (Moore, [1858]) ventrally; however, it can be differentiated by its hindwing postdiscal band, which remains unbroken at space 7. When the bands are narrower, it may resemble R. manea, but it can be distinguished by spot 7 on the ventral hindwing, which is not smaller than spot 6 in R. varuna. Males have shining dark blue on the dorsal wings without lateral iridescence, whereas females exhibit a dull blue coloration. Male Genitalia (Figs 2 c – 2 e): Aedeagus with distal margin of vesica serrated and a longitudinal cleft in the middle; slender valvae blunt at the apices; cleft between the valvae slightly more than 1 / 3 rd the length of the valval plate. Female Genitalia (Fig. 2 f): Anterior apophysis short and pointed; ductus bursae widens medially, narrows near the distal portion forming a neck with a wide and smoothly convex head; corpus bursae with a long, slender, longitudinal line of signum on either side with rows of minute spines inside arranged laterally. Biology: Larvae have been documented feeding on the flowers of Combretum indicum (L.) De Filipps (Wynter-Blyth 1957), Litchi chinensis Sonn., Nephelium lappaceum L., Ziziphus rugosa Lam. (Ek-Amnuay 2012), and Z. xylopyrus (Retz.) Willd. (Swinhoe 1911), as well as on Sapindus saponaria L. and Lantana camara L. (Wynter-Blyth 1957; Kehimkar 2008). They have also been recorded feeding on the fruits of Psidium guajava L. (Jayaraj et al. 1961). Variation: Individuals exhibit considerable variation in the width of the postdiscal bands, ranging from as wide as in Deudorix epijarbas to as narrow as in Rapala manea. The cell-end bar on the ventral hindwing may not always be connected to the postdiscal band but can be positioned very close to it; that on the ventral forewing may be connected to or distant from the postdiscal band. The ventral ground color varies, appearing predominantly slate gray in females, and brownish to grayish with an indigo-blue sheen in males. Natural History: Adults are commonly found on flowers, in forests and forest edges, along stream banks, and on moist soil (Sondhi et al. 2013; Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Phenology in Nepal: February to December (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Elevation: 90 – 1,550 m (Smith 1994; Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Distribution on the Indian Subcontinent: Eastern to northeastern India, Andamans, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh (Van Gasse 2018). Distribution in Nepal: Terai region, Gandaki Province including the Pokhara Valley, Bagmati Province including the Kathmandu Valley, and Koshi Province (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022).	en	Kc, Sajan, Poel, Piet Van Der, Pariyar, Surendra, Sunar, Aman, Limbu, Mahendra Singh (2025): A review of the genus Rapala Moore, 1881 (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae) of Nepal with insights on little-known species. Zootaxa 5692 (1): 31-56, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2
0387897B96634220FF3BFF0B37D8FD95.taxon	materials_examined	Type locality: Siam (Thailand) Common Name: Common Red Flash Material Examined: NEPAL. Gandaki Province. Gorkha. Luitel East, 16. ix. 1968, 885 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂). Kaski. Pakha, 11. xi. 1989, 1010 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂). Tanahun. 26. viii. 1989, leg. S. Pariyar (ANHM, 1 ♀). Lumbini Province. Rupandehi. Butwal, 29. ix. 1971, 125 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂). INDIA. Meghalaya. Khasi Hills, vii. 1893, MGCL 1201230, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 90 (MGCL, 1 ♂) (Fig. 3 a). West Bengal. Darjeeling, 10. ii. 1990, MGCL 1201231, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 108 (MGCL, 1 ♀) (Fig. 3 b). Wingspan: 33 – 41 mm (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Diagnosis (Figs 3 a, 3 b): Rapala iarbus can be distinguished from its congeners by its red dorsal coloration, with the forewing veins prominently dark in males. It resembles R. pheretima dorsally but can be distinguished by the presence of a stubby tail on vein 3, which is absent in R. pheretima, and by the sharply defined and much darker red patch on the dorsal forewing in males. The female R. iarbus has a dorsal red color suffused across the entire forewings, unlike in R. pheretima males. Ventrally, R. iarbus can be distinguished from R. manea by its distinctly orange cilia and from R. selira by its ash gray to slate gray coloration. Male Genitalia (Figs 3 c – 3 e): Aedeagus vesica with a longitudinal cleft in the middle with serrated margin in lateral view; valvae wide basally and narrowed apically; cleft between the valvae slightly less than half the length of the valval plate. Female Genitalia (Fig. 3 f): Anterior apophysis longer than most other Rapala; ductus bursae widens apically, distal end triangular and strongly pointed like an arrow; corpus bursae with a longitudinal slender signum on either side at the basal half with rows of minute spines inside. Biology: Larvae are known to feed on the young leaves of Melastoma polyanthum Burm. f., Nephelium lappaceum L., Xylia xylocarpa (Roxb.) W. Theob. (Fleming 1975; Ek-Amnuay 2012), Ougeinia dalbergioides Benth., Melastoma malabathricum L., Zizyphus rugosa Lam. (Kehimkar 2008), Desmodium oojeinense (Roxb.) H. Ohashi, Mangifera indica L., and Mimusops elengi L. (Robinson et al. 2023). Natural History: Adults are typically found in wooded areas and on flowers (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Variation: Variation occurs primarily in the ventral ground color, ranging from ash gray to slate gray. Phenology in Nepal: March, May to December (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Elevation: 180 – 1,490 m (Smith 1994; Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Distribution on the Indian Subcontinent: Nepal to northeastern India, Bhutan, and Bangladesh (Van Gasse 2018). Distribution in Nepal: Terai region, Karnali Province, Kathmandu Valley, Gandaki Province including the Pokhara Valley, and Koshi Province (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022).	en	Kc, Sajan, Poel, Piet Van Der, Pariyar, Surendra, Sunar, Aman, Limbu, Mahendra Singh (2025): A review of the genus Rapala Moore, 1881 (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae) of Nepal with insights on little-known species. Zootaxa 5692 (1): 31-56, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2
0387897B96624220FF3BFD12377AF8C9.taxon	materials_examined	Type Locality: Bashahr (India) Common Name: Himalayan Red Flash Material Examined: NEPAL. Karnali Province. Humla. Bargaon, 20. v. 1985, 2805 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂); same locality, 23. v. 1985, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂). INDIA. Himachal Pradesh. San Damiano [sic], Shimla Hills, June, 2285 m, MGCL 1201223, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 92 (MGCL, 1 ♂) (Fig. 4 a); Shimla, Mashobra, 2410 m, 25 / 4, MGCL 1201222, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 86 (MGCL, 1 ♀) (Fig. 4 b). Wingspan: 32 – 34 mm (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Diagnosis (Figs 4 a, 4 b): Rapala selira can be distinguished from congeners in Nepal by the orange patches on the discal area of the dorsal forewing and the marginal area of the dorsal hindwing, resembling the females of Heliophorus Geyer, 1832 species. Ventrally, it resembles R. iarbus but can be differentiated by its ochraceous background and the straight, non-lunulate margins of the postdiscal bands. It also resembles R. nissa and R. huangi on the ventral side but typically has much wider bands with more distinct white edging. Males have smaller orange patches, whereas females have broader ones dorsally. Male Genitalia (Figs 4 c – 4 e): Aedeagus vesica with a pair of strongly sclerotized thick cornuti; distal margin of vesica normal with minute spines; valvae wide, narrowed at the apices; cleft between the valvae slightly less than half the length of the valval plate. Female Genitalia (Fig. 4 f): Anterior apophysis short; ductus bursae wide with lateral margins straight, distal end wider with convex margin; corpus bursae large and bulbous in situ (punctured in Fig. 4 f), with a longitudinal slender signum on either side with rows of strong spines inside. Biology: Larvae are believed to feed on the flowers of Indigofera atropurpurea Buch. - Ham. ex Hornem. (Wynter-Blyth 1957). Natural History: Adults are typically found in open areas, woodlands, and flowers (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Variation: Variation occurs primarily in the ventral postdiscal bands, ranging from wide to narrow. See Kumar (2013) for variation in genitalia. Phenology in Nepal: April to August (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Elevation: 2,070 – 3,660 m (Smith 1994; Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Distribution on the Indian Subcontinent: Pakistan, northwestern India to central Nepal, and Bhutan (needs confirmation) (Van Gasse 2018). Distribution in Nepal: Sudurpaschim Province (excluding the Terai districts), Karnali Province, and Manang and Mustang districts (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022).	en	Kc, Sajan, Poel, Piet Van Der, Pariyar, Surendra, Sunar, Aman, Limbu, Mahendra Singh (2025): A review of the genus Rapala Moore, 1881 (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae) of Nepal with insights on little-known species. Zootaxa 5692 (1): 31-56, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2
0387897B966D422DFF3BFB70317CFDB1.taxon	materials_examined	Type Locality: Kolkata (India) Common Name: Slate Flash Material Examined: NEPAL. Gandaki Province. Kaski. Rupatal, 24. v. 1986, 675 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂). Gorkha. Koplang Khola, 6. iv. 1970, 645 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂); Bagmati Province. Bhaktapur. Suryabinayak, 23. iv. 1986, 1590 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♀). INDIA. Meghalaya. Khasi Hills, leg. Le Moult, MGCL 1201225, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 87 (MGCL, 1 ♂) (Fig. 5 a); same data, MGCL 1201224, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 105 (MGCL, 1 ♀) (Fig. 5 b). Wingspan: 30 – 33 mm (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Diagnosis (Figs 5 a, 5 b): Rapala manea can be distinguished from its congeners by its broad postdiscal bands, which are edged in white more strongly on the outer margin, and its ventral coloration, which varies from slate gray to yellowish or purplish. It can be differentiated from the similar-looking R. scintilla by the blue iridescence present on both the dorsal fore- and hindwings of males, as well as by its ventral side, which lacks a greenish tinge and often features more prominent submarginal spots on the hindwing. In contrast, R. scintilla males have a blue iridescence only on the dorsal hindwings, a ventral side with a greenish tinge, and less distinct submarginal spots. Identification often requires viewing the dorsal side of the male wings. Rapala varuna may occasionally appear similar but can be distinguished by its wider bands, a cell-end bar that is connected to or very close to the postdiscal band on the ventral hindwing, and a postdiscal spot 7 on the ventral hindwing that is not smaller than spot 6. Males are iridescent blue on both wings dorsally while females are dull purplish blue. Male Genitalia (Figs 5 c – 5 e): Aedeagus vesica with a slight longitudinal central cleft and serrated distal margin on either side; valvae short and slender with blunt apices, wider bases and narrowed apices; cleft between the valvae about 1 / 3 rd the length of the valval plate. Female Genitalia (Fig. 5 f): Anterior apophysis moderately long; ductus bursae slender and elongated, lateral margins about straight, distal end wide, triangular, and arrow shaped; corpus bursae round and bulbous without any visible signum. Biology: This species is among the most polyphagous butterflies known. The larvae are known to feed on the flowers or young leaves of Senegalia caesia (L.) Maslin, Seigler & Ebinger, S. megaladena (Desv.) Maslin, Seigler & Ebinger, S. pennata (L.) Maslin, S. torta (Roxb.) Maslin, Seigler & Ebinger, Antidesma acidum Retz., A. ghaesembilla Gaertn., Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze, Combretum indicum (L.) De Filipps, Sorbaria sorbifolia (L.) A. Braun, and Ziziphus Mill. spp. (Wynter-Blyth 1957); Averrhoa bilimbi L., Clerodendrum infortunatum L., Lantana camara L., Mimosa diplotricha C. Wright, Saraca asoca (Roxb.) W. J. de Wilde, Urena lobata L., Lepisanthes tetraphylla (Vahl) Radlk. (Nitin et al. 2018); Ixora L. sp. (Kunte et al. 2025); Litchi chinensis Sonn. (Mukherjee 2021); Mangifera indica L., Lithocarpus quercifolius C. C. Huang & Y. T. Chang, Millettia nitida Benth. (Robinson et al. 2023); Senna tora (L.) Roxb. (Naik & Mustak 2020); Syzygium Gaertn. sp. (Bhakare & Ogale 2018); and Mallotus repandus (Rottler) Müll. Arg. (Banerjee et al. 2023). Additionally, they have been recorded on flowers and young leaves of Bauhinia purpurea L., Dimocarpus longan Lour., Durio zibethinus Murray, Gordonia axillaris Szyszył., Nephelium lappaceum L., Combretum indicum (L.) De Filipps, and Viburnum odoratissimum Ker Gawl. (Ek-Amnuay 2012); and on the flowers of Spondias pinnata (L. fil.) Kurz (Mukherjee 2022); Calliandra haematocephala Hassk. (Mukherjee 2021); Mimosa invisa Mart. ex Colla (Kalawate et al. 2024); and Caesalpinia bonduc (L.) Roxb. (Payra & Bhatt 2024). Their host range is likely broader, encompassing additional plant species. Natural History: Adults are typically found in woods, along forest trails, on flowers, and near stream edges (Sondhi et al. 2013, Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Variation: The ventral coloration of Rapala manea varies from slate gray to yellowish or purplish. The cell-end bar on the ventral hindwing can range from distant to close to the postdiscal band. The spots in the postdiscal bands may be aligned or strongly broken. Elevation: 150 – 2,140 m (Smith 1994; Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Phenology in Nepal: March to December (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Distribution on the Indian Subcontinent: Pakistan, Sri Lanka, India, including the Andamans, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh (Van Gasse 2018). Distribution in Nepal: Widely distributed across Nepal, except in arid regions such as much of Sudurpaschim Province and the trans-Himalayan districts of Manang and Mustang (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022).	en	Kc, Sajan, Poel, Piet Van Der, Pariyar, Surendra, Sunar, Aman, Limbu, Mahendra Singh (2025): A review of the genus Rapala Moore, 1881 (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae) of Nepal with insights on little-known species. Zootaxa 5692 (1): 31-56, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2
0387897B966F422DFF3BFDF73788F8C9.taxon	materials_examined	Type Locality: Sikkim (India) Common Name: Scarce Slate Flash Material Examined: NEPAL. Bagmati Province. Makawanpur. Kahare Khola, 20. i. 1991, 215 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂). Gandaki Province. Gorkha. Luitel School, 5. xii. 1968, 885 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂). MALAYSIA. Pahang. Genting Sempah Pass?, 1. i. 1972, MGCL 1201235, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 94 (MGCL, 1 ♂) (Fig. 6 a); Fraser’s Hill, 13. vi. 1968, MGCL 1201236, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 110 (MGCL, 1 ♀) (Fig. 6 b); same data, MGCL 1026504, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 115 (MGCL, 1 ♀). Wingspan: 30 – 32 mm (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Diagnosis (Figs 6 a, 6 b): Rapala scintilla can be distinguished from the similar-looking R. manea by the distribution of blue iridescence in males; in R. scintilla, it is present exclusively on the hindwings when viewed under sidelight, whereas in R. manea, it appears on both wings under the same conditions. Dorsally, the wings of R. scintilla are steely blue, while ventrally, males exhibit a grayer hue with a subtle greenish tinge. The submarginal spots on the hindwings of R. scintilla are either suffused or faded, whereas in R. manea, these spots are often more pronounced and distinct. Females of R. scintilla are dull blue dorsally and ochraceous ventrally. Male Genitalia (Figs 6 c – 6 e): Aedeagus vesica with deep longitudinal cleft in the middle with either side serrated; valvae short and slender with blunt apices; cleft between the valvae about 1 / 3 rd the length of the valval plate. Female Genitalia (Fig. 6 f): Anterior apophysis short and blunt; ductus bursae distal end wide, triangular, and arrow shaped as in R. manea; however, the lateral margins of the arrowhead are distinctly more pointed than in R. manea; corpus bursae with small, short signum on either side with minute spines inside; large brown signum-like patch on the illustrated genitalia is a defect. Biology: The larvae are known to feed on the young leaves of Butea frondosa Koen. ex Roxb and Ziziphus mauritiana Lam. (Ek-Amnuay 2012). Natural History: Adults are typically found in wooded areas and are often observed on flowers (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Variation: Some specimens may not exhibit the greenish tinge on the ventral wings as clearly. Phenology in Nepal: January, February, April, May, July, October to December (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). It is potentially present year-round but is often mistaken for R. manea. Elevation: 180 – 1,980 m (Smith 1994; Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Distribution on the Indian Subcontinent: Central Nepal east to northeastern India, potentially Bhutan, and northeastern Bangladesh (Van Gasse 2018). Distribution in Nepal: Terai region, Gandaki Province including the Pokhara Valley, Bagmati Province including the Kathmandu Valley, and Koshi Province (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022).	en	Kc, Sajan, Poel, Piet Van Der, Pariyar, Surendra, Sunar, Aman, Limbu, Mahendra Singh (2025): A review of the genus Rapala Moore, 1881 (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae) of Nepal with insights on little-known species. Zootaxa 5692 (1): 31-56, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2
0387897B966E422BFF3BFB4334A6FD01.taxon	materials_examined	Type locality: N. Cachar (India) Common Name: Shot Flash Taxonomic Note: Rapala rectivitta was treated as a senior synonym of R. buxaria by Swinhoe (1897) and has been regarded as such by subsequent literature such as Cantlie (1959, 1962) and Van Gasse (2018). However, Varshney & Smetacek (2015) listed them as separate species. Based on their original descriptions and Swinhoe (1897), we reaffirm that the two species are synonymous. Material Examined: INDIA. Nagaland. Naga Hills, Jafwo [sic: recte Japfü] Range, viii. 1953, 1830 – 2745 m, MGCL 1201229, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 89 (MGCL, 1 ♂) (Fig. 7 a). Wingspan: 30 – 35 mm (Ek-Amnuay 2012). Diagnosis (Figs 7 a): Rapala rectivitta can be distinguished from the similar-looking R. nissa, particularly by the dorsal view of the males. Males of R. rectivitta exhibit a deep blue color whose iridescence persists even when viewed at around 180 ° whereas those of R. nissa display a purplish-blue color whose iridescence vanishes when viewed at around 180 °. Additionally, R. nissa typically displays an orange patch on the dorsal wing, a feature absent in R. rectivitta. The ventral discal band of R. rectivitta has bronze color at the center similar to that in R. nissa but is often darker and smoother overall, less edged in white than in brown; the ventral color varies from brown to purplish. Females of R. rectivitta are paler blue on the dorsal side. Male Genitalia (Figs 7 b – 7 d): Aedeagus vesica with a serrated distal margin that sticks out on one side; valvae short and wide with blunt apices; cleft between the valvae less than half the length of the valval plate. The genitalia and the specimen illustrated in Huang (2003) belong to R. huangi, not R. rectivitta. Biology: Not known. Natural History: Adults are typically observed near woods. Variation: Variation mostly occurs in the width of the postdiscal bands, which can range from wide, resembling double bands, to narrow, resembling a single band. The color of the postdiscal band may vary from dark brown to light brown. Phenology in Nepal: March and June. Elevation: 800 – 1000 m. Distribution in Nepal: Pokhara Valley, potentially widespread but confused with R. nissa. Distribution on the Indian Subcontinent: Nepal, northeastern India, and Bhutan (Van Gasse 2018). Remarks: Most records of R. rectivitta from Nepal, cited in Smith (1994, 2006, 2011 a, 2011 b) and later by Van der Poel & Smetacek (2022), refer to either R. rosacea, R. nissa, or R. huangi. In fact, none of the studied specimens from Nepal labeled R. rectivitta represented R. rectivitta. The only confirmed records to date are by Albert Vliegenthart (Fig. 1 f) and the first author, with photographs taken in Pokhara, Nepal, in March and June, respectively, at elevations between 800 and 1,000 m. There may be additional records from Nepal that are unknown to us.	en	Kc, Sajan, Poel, Piet Van Der, Pariyar, Surendra, Sunar, Aman, Limbu, Mahendra Singh (2025): A review of the genus Rapala Moore, 1881 (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae) of Nepal with insights on little-known species. Zootaxa 5692 (1): 31-56, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2
0387897B96694229FF3BF8A236BAFC11.taxon	description	Thecla nissa Kollar, [1844]: 412 Type locality: Mussoorie (India) Common Name: Common Flash Taxonomic Note: Rapala nissa from Nepal was recently split into two species, R. nissa and R. huangi Nakamura & Seki, 2017, based on genitalia analysis and sympatry, suggesting they are widely distributed in the Himalayas, also occurring together (Nakamura & Seki 2017, 2019). Consequently, the distributions of R. nissa, R. huangi, and R. rectivitta are now intermixed, as they cannot always be reliably distinguished from photographs alone. Additionally, Nakamura & Seki (2017) synonymized R. nissa ranta Swinhoe, 1897, with the nominotypical subspecies, indicating that R. nissa is monotypic throughout the Himalayas. Material Examined: NEPAL. Bagmati Province. Lalitpur. Godavari Garden, 26. iii. 1970, 1495 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂). Bhaktapur. Bhadgaon, 12. v. 1973, 1530 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂). Gandaki Province. Baglung. Beni, 23. vi. 1974, 855 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂). Manang. Marshyandi River, 11. viii. 1986, 2440 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♀). Kaski. Pokhara, Kali Khola, 7. xi. 1974, 1160 m, leg. C. P. Smith (SNHM, 1 ♂). INDIA. Meghalaya. Khasi Hills, MGCL 1201226, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 107 (MGCL, 1 ♀). Uttarakhand. Mussoorie, 21. iii. 1917, 1680 m, leg. O. C. Ollenbach, MGCL 1206507, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 117 (MGCL, 1 ♂) (Fig. 8 a); Mussoorie, 27. v. 1912, leg. H. D. Peile, MGCL 1199852, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 99 (MGCL, 1 ♀) (Fig. 8 b). Wingspan: 34 – 38 mm (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Diagnosis (Figs 8 a, 8 b): Rapala nissa can be distinguished from the similar-looking R. rectivitta by the dorsal view of the males which are purplish-blue and not iridescent when viewed at around 180 ° while those of R. rectivitta are deep iridescent blue even when viewed at around 180 °. Likewise, R. nissa often has an orange patch on the dorsal wing which is lacking in R. rectivitta. Ventrally, the bands are lighter, often more broken, and whiter edged than in R. rectivitta. Rapala nissa closely resembles R. huangi but can be distinguished by the postdiscal line on the ventral forewing, which is mostly straight or curved inward, whereas it is mostly curved outward in R. huangi. A more reliable identification requires genitalia examination as variation exists. Discal band often has bronze color in the center; underside is variable from brown to purplish with postdiscal bands ranging from wide to narrow. Female is pale blue above. Male Genitalia (Figs 8 c – 8 e): Aedeagus with a flat vesica that lacks serrations or claw-like cornuti; valvae short and slender with narrowed apices; cleft between the valvae less than 1 / 3 rd the length of the valval plate. Female Genitalia (Fig. 8 f): Anterior apophysis short, apically blunt; ductus bursae distal end much wider than the slender proximal portion, shaped as an anvil; corpus bursae with a longitudinal signum on either side featuring rows of strong spines inside. Biology: The larvae are known to feed on the flowers of Rosa spp. (Kehimkar 2008), Malus domestica (Suckow) Borkh. (Robinson et al. 2023), and possibly on the flowers of Astilbe rivularis Buch. - Ham. ex D. Don (Wynter-Blyth 1957). Potential oviposition has been observed on Rubus ellipticus Sm. and on an unknown fern species by the first author in central Nepal. Natural History: Adults are typically found in open landscapes, woodlands, and on flowers (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Variation: Variation primarily occurs in the width of the postdiscal bands, which can range from wide, resembling double bands, to narrow, appearing as a single band, thereby aligning with both the varuna and pheretima groups. The color of the ventral wings may range from brown to purplish. The postdiscal bands on the ventral forewing may occasionally curve outward, as seen in R. huangi. Phenology in Nepal: January to December (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Elevation: 670 – 3,000 m (Smith 1994; Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Distribution on the Indian Subcontinent: Pakistan, northwestern and northeastern India, Nepal, and Bhutan (Van Gasse 2018). Distribution in Nepal: Throughout Nepal, except for Bagmati Province (excluding the Kathmandu Valley) (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022) but doubtless present.	en	Kc, Sajan, Poel, Piet Van Der, Pariyar, Surendra, Sunar, Aman, Limbu, Mahendra Singh (2025): A review of the genus Rapala Moore, 1881 (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae) of Nepal with insights on little-known species. Zootaxa 5692 (1): 31-56, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2
0387897B966B4229FF3BFB9735EFF84F.taxon	materials_examined	Type Locality: Dhankuta, Nepal Taxonomic Note: Rapala hinomaru Fujioka, 1970, was described from a single female specimen collected in 1963 from Dhankuta, Nepal. Although Fujioka (1970) stated that the holotype was deposited at the National Science Museum of Japan (now the National Museum of Nature and Science, Taitō, Japan), it is actually housed at CUBM. In this study, the holotype was examined using color images of its dorsal and ventral sides provided by CUBM. Based on images of the holotype (Fig. 9), the specimen is undoubtedly conspecific with the R. nissa complex. Fujioka (1970) distinguished R. hinomaru from R. nissa primarily by the narrower wing margins toward the apex (a character not present in the holotype), a prominent but irregular white discal line on the ventral hindwing, and significantly longer tails. However, these characters are also observed in individuals of R. nissa, a species which exhibits considerable morphological variation. It does not correspond to R. rectivitta, which is characterized by straighter and often darker postdiscal bands (Wynter-Blyth 1957). The primary question remains whether R. hinomaru corresponds to R. nissa or R. huangi. Fujioka’s (1970) specimen closely resembles the holotype of R. nissa (see Nakamura & Seki 2017 p. 76 Fig. 2 B) and the R. nissa individual depicted in this study (Fig. 8 b). Although R. nissa and R. huangi cannot always be reliably distinguished without genitalia examination, the discal band on the ventral forewing serves as an important diagnostic character (Nakamura & Seki 2019). The images labeled as R. nissa in Fujioka (1970) (p. 85, Pl. 11, Figs. 3, 4) are more accurately attributable to R. huangi, based on the outwardly curved postdiscal bands on the ventral forewings. In contrast, the holotype of R. hinomaru (p. 85, Pl. 11, Figs. 5, 6) is most likely R. nissa. Thus, Fujioka (1970) appears to have misidentified these two sympatric species from Nepal (pers. comm. Nakamura 2025). Based on this, we herein propose treating R. hinomaru as a junior subjective synonym of R. nissa, syn. nov. This revision contributes to the stabilization of the taxonomic framework of the Rapala genus in Nepal. Type Material Examined: Holotype ♀: Nepal. Koshi Province. Dhankuta. Darapani – The Tombol Bridge, 25. vi. 1963, 1000 m, leg. T. Fujioka, in CUBM (Fig. 9). Wingspan: 31 mm.	en	Kc, Sajan, Poel, Piet Van Der, Pariyar, Surendra, Sunar, Aman, Limbu, Mahendra Singh (2025): A review of the genus Rapala Moore, 1881 (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae) of Nepal with insights on little-known species. Zootaxa 5692 (1): 31-56, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2
0387897B966A4237FF3BFC333798FF51.taxon	materials_examined	Type locality: Godavari (Nepal) Proposed Common Name: Round-banded Flash Material Examined: INDIA. Meghalaya. Shillong, 4. iii. 1945, leg. R. E. Parsons, MGCL 1201227, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 88 (MGCL, 1 ♂); Khasi Hills, vi. 1893, MGCL 1201840, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 95 (MGCL, 1 ♂) (Fig. 10 a); same data, MGCL 1201841, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 96 (MGCL, 1 ♀) (Fig. 10 b); same locality, v. 1986 (MGCL, 1 ♂); same locality, 1967 (MGCL, 1 ♂); Cherrapunji, 10. iv. 1942, leg. R. E. Parsons (MGCL, 1 ♀). Uttarakhand. Nainital (Kumaon), Bhimtal, 24. iii. 1983, leg. F. Smetacek (MGCL, 1 ♂). Wingspan: 32 – 39 mm (Nakamura & Seki 2017). Diagnosis (Figs 10 a, 10 b): Rapala huangi can be distinguished from the similar-looking R. nissa by the ventral postdiscal band on the forewing, which is noticeably curved outward rather than curved inward or straight. However, accurate identification requires a genitalia analysis, where the aedeagus bears a vesica laterally extending on both sides and sclerotized cornuti shaped like a pair of sharp claws, similar to those in R. selira but much thinner (Nakamura & Seki 2017). In females, the distal end of the ductus bursae is only slightly wider than the proximal part (Nakamura & Seki 2019). Male Genitalia (Figs 10 c – 10 e): Aedeagus with a rounded vesica that extends to both sides and has minute serrations laterally; a pair of sclerotized cornuti as in R. selira but much thinner; valvae short and slender with narrowed apices; cleft between the valvae about 1 / 3 rd the length of the valval plate. Female Genitalia (Fig. 10 f): Anterior apophysis short; ductus bursae distal portion not as enlarged than the proximal portion as in R. nissa and has a slightly convex outer margin; corpus bursae with a longitudinal signum on either side featuring rows of strong spines inside. Biology: Potentially similar to R. nissa. Natural History: Similar to R. nissa. Variation: Variation mostly occurs in the width of the postdiscal bands, which can range from wide, resembling double bands, to narrow, resembling a single band. The color of the ventral wings may range from brown to purplish. Phenology in Nepal: April to July (personal observations; Nakamura & Seki 2017, 2019). Elevation: ca. 1000 – 2000 m (Nakamura & Seki 2017, 2019). Distribution on the Indian Subcontinent: Northwestern and northeastern India, Nepal, potentially Bhutan. Distribution in Nepal: Recorded from Dadeldhura, Kaski, Lalitpur, and Makawanpur districts (Nakamura & Seki 2017). Potentially sympatric with R. nissa across its distribution range.	en	Kc, Sajan, Poel, Piet Van Der, Pariyar, Surendra, Sunar, Aman, Limbu, Mahendra Singh (2025): A review of the genus Rapala Moore, 1881 (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae) of Nepal with insights on little-known species. Zootaxa 5692 (1): 31-56, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2
0387897B96754236FF3BFA1D3788FCF5.taxon	materials_examined	Type locality: East India Common Name: Copper Flash Material Examined: NEPAL. Bagmati Province. Chitwan. Mahendra Forest, 21. iv. 1987, 200 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♀). Gandaki Province. Gorkha. Luitel School, 3. xii. 1968, 885 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 2 ♂). Kaski. Phewatal, 29. xi. 1986, 1070 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♀). INDIA. Meghalaya. Khasi Hills, 21. ii. 1993, MGCL 1201220, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 85 (MGCL 1 ♂) (Fig. 11 a); Khasi Hills, 1950, MGCL 1201221, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 104 (MGCL 1 ♀) (Fig. 11 b). Wingspan: 36 – 42 mm (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Diagnosis (Figs 11 a, 11 b): Dorsally, the male R. pheretima resembles R. iarbus but can be distinguished by the shape of vein 2 on the hindwing, which lacks the stubby tail present in R. iarbus. The dorsal orange on the forewing is more suffused in male R. pheretima than in male R. iarbus. Ventrally, R. pheretima can be identified by its coppery hue, narrow dark brown postdiscal bands, a dark forewing cell-end bar, and typically a central cell bar on the forewing. Males also usually have a sub basal spot in space 7 on ventral hindwing. The male is red above, while the female is purple blue. Male Genitalia (Figs 11 c – 11 f): Aedeagus vesica with a hook-shaped tip; valvae short and slender with narrowed apices; cleft between the valvae slightly more than 1 / 3 rd the length of the valval plate. Female Genitalia (Fig. 11 g): Anterior apophysis extremely short; ductus bursae lateral margins straight, distal end enlarged and smoothly convex; corpus bursae round and bulbous with a yolk-like center, short signum on either side with a single large hook-shaped spine inside. Biology: Larvae are known to feed on the flowers of Dimocarpus longan Lour., Syzygium fruticosum (Roxb.) DC., Lepisanthesrubiginosa (Roxb.) Leenh., Litchichinensis Sonn., Mangiferaindica L., Nepheliumlappaceum L., Vigna unguiculata unguiculata (L.) Walp., 1842 (Ek-Amnuay 2012), Aganope thyrsiflora (Benth.) Polhill, and Macadamia integrifolia Maiden & Betche (Robinson et al. 2023). Natural History: Adults are typically found in forests, forest edges, stream edges, woodlands, and flowers (Sondhi et al. 2013; Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Variation: The postdiscal bands in some individuals may be wider. Variation primarily occurs in the presence or absence of the mid-cell band on the ventral forewing and, in males, the sub basal spot 7 on the ventral hindwing. Phenology in Nepal: January to December (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Elevation: 150 – 1,580 m (Smith 1994; Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Distribution on the Indian Subcontinent: East Uttarakhand in India eastward to Nepal, south to southeastern Madhya Pradesh and northern Chhattisgarh, northern Eastern Ghats, southern West Bengal, northeastern India, Bhutan, and Bangladesh (Van Gasse 2018). Distribution in Nepal: Terai region, Gandaki Province including the Pokhara Valley, Bagmati Province including the Kathmandu Valley, and Koshi Province (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022).	en	Kc, Sajan, Poel, Piet Van Der, Pariyar, Surendra, Sunar, Aman, Limbu, Mahendra Singh (2025): A review of the genus Rapala Moore, 1881 (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae) of Nepal with insights on little-known species. Zootaxa 5692 (1): 31-56, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2
0387897B96774234FF3BFF0B30EAFE79.taxon	description	Rapala tara de Nicéville, [1889]: 284 Type locality: Sylhet (India) Common Name: Assam Flash Material Examined: NEPAL. Bagmati Province. Lalitpur. Godavari, 21. x. 1970, 1495 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♀). Gandaki Province. Kaski. Dhampus, 3. viii. 1990, 1100 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♀). Koshi Province. Taplejung. Chilauni, 7. vii. 1996, 1530 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂). INDIA. Meghalaya. Khasi Hills, leg. Le Moult, MGCL 1201232, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 91 (MGCL, 1 ♂) (Fig. 12 a); same locality, vi. 1938, MGCL 1201233, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 109 (MGCL, 1 ♀) (Fig. 12 b). Wingspan: 33 – 41 mm (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Diagnosis (Figs 12 a, 12 b): Rapala tara can be distinguished from its congeners in Nepal by the presence of a discal black brand on the male’s forewing dorsally, similar to that of Hypolycaena erylus (Godart, [1824]), set against a brilliant blue background. The female is dull brownish purple above. Ventrally, it differs from similar yellow or ochraceous congeners by its hindwing postdiscal band, which is widely broken in spaces 2 and 3 and gets very wide in space 1. Males are ochraceous ventrally while females are deep yellow. Male Genitalia (Figs 12 c – 12 e): Aedeagus vesica with a large longitudinal cleft in the middle; valvae short and slender with apices narrowed; cleft between the valvae less than half the length of the valval plate. Female Genitalia (Fig. 12 f): Anterior apophysis very short and stubby; ductus bursae short and wide with base narrowed and distal end enlarged and convex; corpus bursae with a short longitudinal signum on either side bearing minute spines laterally on the inside, and a wide patch of signum connected to the base of ductus bursae. Biology: Not known. Natural History: Adults are typically found in forests, streams, and gardens (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Variation: In some individuals, the bands may be slightly wider. Phenology in Nepal: March to November (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Elevation: 850 – 1,650 m (Smith 1994; Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Distribution on the Indian Subcontinent: East Uttarakhand in India eastward to Nepal with disjunct records, northeastern India, Bhutan, and northeastern Bangladesh (Van Gasse 2018). Distribution in Nepal: Sudurpaschim Province (excluding the Terai districts), Pokhara Valley, Kathmandu Valley, and Koshi Province (excluding the Terai districts) (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022).	en	Kc, Sajan, Poel, Piet Van Der, Pariyar, Surendra, Sunar, Aman, Limbu, Mahendra Singh (2025): A review of the genus Rapala Moore, 1881 (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae) of Nepal with insights on little-known species. Zootaxa 5692 (1): 31-56, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2
0387897B96764234FF3BFDBE3144F82D.taxon	description	Rapala rosacea de Nicéville, [1889]: 285 Type locality: Sikkim (India) Common Name: Rosy Flash	en	Kc, Sajan, Poel, Piet Van Der, Pariyar, Surendra, Sunar, Aman, Limbu, Mahendra Singh (2025): A review of the genus Rapala Moore, 1881 (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae) of Nepal with insights on little-known species. Zootaxa 5692 (1): 31-56, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2
0387897B96764234FF3BFDBE3144F82D.taxon	materials_examined	Material Examined: NEPAL. Gandaki Province. Kaski. Pokhara, Phewatal, 15. iii. 1986, 795 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂); Rupatal, 29. ii. 1992, 370 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂). Syangja. Putalikhet, 6. ii. 1970, 855 m, leg. C. P. Smith (ANHM, 1 ♂) (Fig. 13). Wingspan: 38 – 40 mm (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022 for R. rectivitta) Diagnosis (Figs 13 a, 13 b): Rapala rosacea can be distinguished from its congeners by the narrow, often undulating dark brown postdiscal lines on its ventral wings, set against a vinous red or pink background, along with its pinkish palpi. The only other species with a similar pink background are R. rectivitta, R. nissa, and R. huangi, all of which have postdiscal lines with bronze color that are often wider. De Nicéville ([1889], p. 285) noted: “ The reddish-vinous coloration of the underside at once distinguishes it from all the species of the genus known to me ”. Male Genitalia (Figs 13 c): Aedeagus with a short vesica, pointed to one side; valvae slender and elongated; cleft between the valvae more than half the length of the valval plate. Biology: Not known; however, based on its seasonality, larvae potentially feed on the flowers of Rosaceae. Natural History: Adults are typically found in forests, on flowers, particularly those of Rubus ellipticus Sm., and along open rural trails. Variation: Variation occurs in the postdiscal bands which can range from slightly broken to unbroken. Some individuals are potentially gray as discussed below in the remarks. Phenology in Nepal: The rosy form flies mostly from February to mid-March after which a gray form takes over with similarly thin bands which might be R. nissa complex. Elevation: 450 – 2,200 m (personal observation) Distribution on the Indian Subcontinent: Nepal, northeastern India (Van Gasse 2018). Distribution in Nepal: Kaski, Lamjung, and Lalitpur districts, but certainly more widespread across the hilly region. Remarks: This species was recorded by Smith (1994, 2006, 2011 a, 2011 b) and later by Van der Poel & Smetacek (2022) as R. rectivitta. Colin Smith likely followed Evans (1932), who considered R. rosacea a form of R. rectivitta. Upon examination, all specimens previously identified as R. rectivitta in the studied Nepalese collections (ANHM and SNHM) were found to represent either R. nissa, R. huangi, or R. rosacea. All authors of this study have recorded R. rosacea in Nepal: SKC from Kaski (Pokhara), Lamjung (Bhorletar), and Lalitpur (Godavari) districts; PvdP from Kaski (Pokhara) District; SP and AS from Kaski (Pokhara) District; and MSL from Lalitpur (Godavari) District. Notably, the rosy, reddish-vinous-colored R. rosacea occurs mostly from February to mid-March in Nepal, after which only grayer individuals are observed. This suggests that R. rosacea is an early spring univoltine butterfly in Nepal, emerging from February to mid-March after which only R. nissa complex, including R. rectivitta, flies. However, Inayoshi (2024) suggests that the phenology of R. rosacea extends until December in Thailand and Vietnam. Further research is needed on the phenology and possible morphological variation of this taxon.	en	Kc, Sajan, Poel, Piet Van Der, Pariyar, Surendra, Sunar, Aman, Limbu, Mahendra Singh (2025): A review of the genus Rapala Moore, 1881 (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae) of Nepal with insights on little-known species. Zootaxa 5692 (1): 31-56, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2
0387897B96714232FF3BFC4A305FFE79.taxon	materials_examined	Type locality: Singapore Common Name: Scarlet Flash Material Examined: INDONESIA. Sumatra. Aceh Province. Simeulue, xi. 1992, MGCL 1201843, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 98 (MGCL, 1 ♂) (Fig. 14 a); same data, MGCL 1206505, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 116 (MGCL, 1 ♂). North Sumatra Province. Utara, Prapat, 9. vi. 1963, leg. Dr. Diehel, MGCL 1201844, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 111 (MGCL, 1 ♀) (Fig. 14 b). Wingspan: 30 – 36 mm (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Diagnosis (Figs 14 a, 14 b): Rapala dieneces dieneces can be distinguished from similar congeners with red dorsal wings occurring in Nepal by its red coloration, which is typically confined to the areas below and beside the cell on both the dorsal fore- and hindwing. The male differs from the similar-looking R. damona primarily by its more confined red coloration on the dorsal hindwing that does not extend into space 7. Ventrally, R. dieneces dieneces can be distinguished from R. damona by the tornal patch of blue speckles in hindwing space 1 c which is far away from the band, prominent orange crown above the black tornal spot in space 2, and forewing postdiscal band, which is mostly straight. Male is red above, while female is brown. Male Genitalia (Figs 14 c – 14 e): Aedeagus vesica with two hook-shaped tips projected upward in the same fashion as in R. pheretima (cf. one hook only), one much larger than the other; valvae elongated and sinuate with narrowed apices; cleft between the valvae more than half the length of the valval plate. Female Genitalia (Fig. 14 f): Anterior apophysis short; ductus bursae very slender and elongated with distal end lacking a distinct head; corpus bursae round and bulbous with a thick center, a short signum on either side near the apex with a single large hook-shaped spine inside. Biology: The larvae are known to feed on the flowers of Durio zibethinus Murray, Syzygium grande (Wight) N. P. Balakr., Nephelium lappaceum L. (Ek-Amnuay 2012), and Allophylus triphyllus (Burm. fil.) Merr. (Wynter-Blyth 1957). Natural History: Adults are typically found in sparse forests (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Variation: The postdiscal bands on ventral forewing range from straight to angulated in the middle. The brightness of the orange crown on the black tornal spot on the ventral hindwing may also vary. Phenology in Nepal: August (Smith 1994). Elevation: 180 m (Smith 1994). Distribution on the Indian Subcontinent: Northeastern India, Bangladesh, and westward to the eastern Terai of Nepal (Van Gasse 2018). Geographic Distribution: Jhapa District (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022), potentially in Bandipur, Tanahun District (Fig. 1 l). Remarks: In Nepal, R. dieneces has been recorded only once, in August 1974, from Jhapa District (Smith 1994; Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). A tentative record by the first author from Bandipur, Tanahun District, on June 8, 2019, at 1,040 m (Fig. 1 l) remains unverified due to the absence of dorsal images.	en	Kc, Sajan, Poel, Piet Van Der, Pariyar, Surendra, Sunar, Aman, Limbu, Mahendra Singh (2025): A review of the genus Rapala Moore, 1881 (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae) of Nepal with insights on little-known species. Zootaxa 5692 (1): 31-56, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2
0387897B96704231FF3BF9BD3481FC0D.taxon	materials_examined	Type Locality: South Andamans Common Name: Malay Red Flash Material Examined: INDONESIA. Sumatra. West Sumatra Province. Mentawai Island, Padang Paria, Sipora, Sioban, vi. 1993, leg. Widagdo, MGCL 1201846, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 97 (MGCL 1 ♂) (Fig. 15 a); Java. Kangean, viii. 1992, MGCL 1201845, Genitalic Vial KW- 24 - 112 (MGCL, 1 ♀) (Fig. 15 b). Wingspan: 33 – 35 mm (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Diagnosis (Figs 15 a, 15 b): Rapala damona can be distinguished from similar congeners in Nepal with red dorsal wings by the red coloration which is usually confined below and beside the cell on the dorsal fore- and hindwing. The male differs from the similar-looking R. dieneces primarily by its red coloration extending into space 7 on the dorsal hindwing. Ventrally, it can be distinguished from R. dieneces usually by the tornal patch of blue speckles in hindwing space 1 c which is very close to the band, orange crown above the black tornal spot in space 2 obscure or smeared, and forewing postdiscal band, which is mostly curved or bent at the apical quarter. Male is red above while female is brown; ventrally, male is yellowish-brown while female is pale yellowish. Male Genitalia (Figs 15 c – 15 e): Aedeagus vesica with two recurved hook-shaped tips, one barely visible except on lateral view; valvae elongated and sinuate with narrowed apices; cleft between the valvae more than half the length of the valval plate. Female Genitalia (Fig. 15 f): Anterior apophysis short; ductus bursae gradually widened distally without a distinct head; corpus bursae with a thick center, and a short signum on either side near the apex with a single large hook-shaped spine inside. Biology: Not known. Natural History: Adults are found in forests and on flowers (Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Variation: The veins on the dorsal hindwing in males may occasionally be dark, as in R. dieneces. Phenology in Nepal: November (Smith 1994). Distribution on the Indian Subcontinent: Andamans, northeastern India, and westward to the eastern Terai of Nepal (Van Gasse 2018). Distribution in Nepal: Jhapa District (Smith 1994). Elevation: 240 – 340 m (Smith 1994). Remarks: In Nepal, R. damona has been recorded only once, in November 1979, from Jhapa District, where three specimens were collected over two days (Smith 1994; Van der Poel & Smetacek 2022). Smith’s private Excel database lists the locality as Ilam, leading Van der Poel & Smetacek (2022) to attribute this occurrence to Ilam District.	en	Kc, Sajan, Poel, Piet Van Der, Pariyar, Surendra, Sunar, Aman, Limbu, Mahendra Singh (2025): A review of the genus Rapala Moore, 1881 (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae) of Nepal with insights on little-known species. Zootaxa 5692 (1): 31-56, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2, URL: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5692.1.2
