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Tamil lacewing

Tamil lacewing

Cethosia nietneri

A species of Lacewings

Cethosia nietneri, the Tamil lacewing, is a species of nymphalid butterfly found in Sri Lanka and south India. The species name is after John Nietner who obtained specimens of the butterfly from Ceylon from which it was described.

General Info About Tamil lacewing
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Attributes of Tamil lacewing
Colors
Brown
Black
White
Orange
Habitat
Island, forest, glade and edge of forest, home garden
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from various flowering plants
Larva Food Source
Passiflora species (host plants)
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Tamil lacewing 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 Tamil lacewing
Uncommon
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Distribution Area of Tamil lacewing
Sri Lanka, south India
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Life Cycle of Tamil lacewing
Egg At this initial stage, the eggs of tamil lacewing are laid on host plants. They are tiny, ovular, and often have a distinct color that camouflages with the foliage. Growth at this stage is essentially the increase of the embryo within the egg.
Larva After hatching, the larva of tamil lacewing emerges. It is worm-like, with a soft body and a voracious appetite for host plant leaves. It grows rapidly, molting several times, and its coloration may change to offer better camouflage.
Pupal The larva of tamil lacewing morphs into a static pupa. During this stage, encased within a chrysalis, the body undergoes substantial transformation. Size remains relatively constant, but internal reorganization prepares it for adulthood.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult tamil lacewing shows a vibrant coloration and wings. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the insect is now mobile. The primary focus is on reproduction and feeding on nectar.
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Predators of Tamil lacewing Larvae
Birds, ants, wasps
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Scientific Classification of Tamil lacewing
Tips for Finding Tamil lacewing
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Youth Habitat of Tamil lacewing
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests
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Adult Habitat of Tamil lacewing
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests
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How Can You Attract Tamil lacewing
Since tamil lacewing is a type of butterfly, adults would be attracted to nectar-rich flowers. Therefore, setting up a garden with native flowering plants can serve as a trap to attract them.
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Habitat Preferences of Tamil lacewing Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of tamil lacewing are typically laid on host plants found in shaded woodland areas, which provide ideal conditions for the larvae to feed upon after hatching. As caterpillars, they are often spotted on or near their specific host plants. During the pupal stage, tamil lacewing may be found attached to plant stems or leaves, usually in concealed, vegetated environments. To seek them out, one would examine the underside of leaves and well-sheltered spots within their habitat. Adults primarily inhabit tropical forests; seeking them involves searching near nectar sources, such as flowering plants, where they are likely to feed during the day.
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How and Where Can You Find Tamil lacewing at Different Life Stages
Egg Tamil lacewing eggs are usually laid on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, examine the leaves of known host plants for small, rounded eggs.
Larva Tamil lacewing larvae, or caterpillars, can be found on or near their host plants. Look for them by inspecting the leaves for signs of feeding, such as holes or chewed edges.
Pupal Tamil lacewing pupae may be attached to the host plant or tucked away in nearby foliage. Search carefully around the host plant for chrysalises that are camouflaged to match their environment.
Adult Adult tamil lacewing will be found near nectar sources such as flowering plants. Visit gardens, meadows, and other areas with an abundance of flowers, especially during warm and sunny parts of the day.
Are Tamil lacewing harmful?
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Are Tamil lacewing 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 Tamil lacewing
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Prefer Plant Type
Asteraceae, Daisy, Sunflower
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Tamil lacewing is a vivid pollinator, often seen flitting amongst flowers in search of pollen to consume. Attracted primarily by brightly colored blossoms, especially from the Asteraceae family, its vibrant wings effortlessly dust each bloom, aiding plant reproduction as it feeds.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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