Common Geranium Bronze

<em>Cacyreus marshalli</em>, commonly known as the common geranium bronze, is a small butterfly in the family Lycaenidae. This species has a documented distribution across 24 European countries, making it one of the more broadly recorded lycaenid butterflies in the region. Originally native to southern Africa, <em>Cacyreus marshalli</em> was introduced to Europe, where it has established populations across much of the continent. The species is closely associated with plants in the genus <em>Pelargonium</em> (geraniums), and its larvae feed on these plants, making it a recognized pest of cultivated geraniums in European gardens and horticulture. The species is not currently evaluated for conservation status. Its rapid spread across Europe following introduction demonstrates the capacity of this species to colonize new regions where suitable host plants are cultivated. Biological traits of this species remain poorly documented in the scientific literature. The common geranium bronze is a small, brownish butterfly with distinctive underwing markings and a narrow hindwing tail that is characteristic of many members of the family Lycaenidae.