Lycaendae

This is the second largest family of butterflies and make up 30% of butterfly species. They are also called gossamer winged butterflies. They are small and often brightly coloured with a metallic sheen.

Many adults have small antennae like tails and a spot on the tail base , this appears to confuse predators so that they approach from the butterflies head end- increasing the probability of the butterfly identifying them

About 75% of species have a relationship with ants (myrmecophily) . This relationship might be predatory, parasitic or mutually beneficial- depending on the species, and the Larvae have developed several biological adaptions to influence the ants - including a dorsal nectary gland (creates honeydew that ants eat) or the tentacular organ that releases chemicals to communicate with the ants whilst some species create vibrations and sounds to achieve the same aim

Other species eat Aphids or Scale insects

They are placed in 4 subfamilies

Polyommatinae - blues

Lycaeninae - coppers

Theclinae - hairstreaks . Usually tailed

Miletinae - harvesters. mainly African or Oriental