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Tawny coster

Tawny coster

Acraea violae

A species of Acraea

Acraea terpsicore, the tawny coster, is a small, 53–64 millimetres (2.1–2.5 in), leathery-winged butterfly common in grassland and scrub habitats. It belongs to the Nymphalidae or brush-footed butterfly family. It has a weak fluttery flight. It is avoided by most insect predators. This species and the yellow coster (Acraea issoria) are the only two Indian representatives of the predominantly African tribe Acraeini. It is found in India, Sri Lanka, Maldives to Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Singapore, and recently Australia

General Info About Tawny coster
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Attributes of Tawny coster
Colors
Black
White
Orange
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Tawny coster is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Tawny coster
Common
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Distribution Area of Tawny coster
India, Sri Lanka, Maldives to Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Singapore, Australia

India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Singapore, Australia

India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Singapore, Australia

India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Singapore, Australia
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Life Cycle of Tawny coster
Egg The egg phase begins with the female tawny coster depositing eggs, typically on plant leaves. These eggs are small and may vary in color. At this stage, the encased embryos develop until hatching.
Larva Upon hatching, the larvae, also known as caterpillars, emerge. They are characterized by an elongated body and voracious appetite, primarily for leaves. During this stage, they molt several times, each time increasing in size.
Pupal The caterpillar then forms a pupa, during which it undergoes a dramatic transformation. The pupa may be camouflaged or brightly colored for defense. Inside, tissues are reorganized into the adult form.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult tawny coster displays vibrant wings and a slender body. Flight is the primary mode of mobility, and the insect's focus shifts to reproduction. This stage shows the most drastic change in form.
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Interesting Facts About Tawny coster
Uniquely, tawny coster larvae employ 'leaf shelter' building behavior for protection against predatory wasps.
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Scientific Classification of Tawny coster
Tips for Finding Tawny coster
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Youth Habitat of Tawny coster
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests, Savannas, Grasslands and Prairies
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Adult Habitat of Tawny coster
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests, Savannas, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Tawny coster
The larval stage of tawny coster may be attracted to host plants like the passionflower vines on which they feed. Adults can be attracted using bait traps with fermented fruits or sweet substances.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Tawny coster
Mild, dry weather with little to no wind is ideal for finding tawny coster since they prefer to fly and feed in these conditions.
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How and Where Can You Find Tawny coster at Different Life Stages
Egg Tawny coster eggs are usually laid on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, gently inspect the leaves of potential host plants for small, round eggs.
Larva The tawny coster larvae can be found on or near their host plants. Look for caterpillars or signs of feeding, such as chewed leaves on passionflower plants.
Pupal Tawny coster pupae, or chrysalises, are often attached to the underside of leaves or on nearby structures. Searching in these areas, particularly around host plants, can lead to finding the pupae.
Adult Tawny coster adults can be found feeding on nectar from flowers, basking in the sun, or flying near breeding sites. Visit flowering gardens, meadows, and fields during suitable weather conditions and times of the day to see these butterflies.
Are Tawny coster harmful?
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Are Tawny coster harmful to humans?

Some larvae of tortoiseshell butterflies feed on milkweed, which is a poisonous plant containing cardiac glycosides, so the larvae are poisonous. Although poisonous, these butterflies will not directly affect humans if not swallowed. Touching the larvae of certain tortoiseshell butterflies may cause a rash.
Beneficial Effects of Tawny coster
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Tawny coster is adept at pollination, fluttering from bloom to bloom. Drawn by vivid colors and enticing smells, it feeds on pollen. During this process, pollen adheres to its body, facilitating the transfer of pollen between flowers, inadvertently aiding in plant reproduction.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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