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Papilio epycides

Chilasa epycides

A species of Chilasa

Male upperside dull black, with the following somewhat dingy white markings that resemble in their disposition, the markings in Papilio agestor. Forewing: cell with two streaks from hase that diverse outwardly and reach the apex, three shorter streaks between and above them at apex; interspace la with an elongate streak that does not reach the termen; two streaks in interspace 1 divided by a black line as in P. agestor; a series of more or less rectangular broad streaks in interspaces 2 to 6 with elongate spots in 7 and 8; a very slender costal streak from base; finally a series of subterminal spots in interspaces 1 to 5 succeeded above in interspaces 6 and 7 by ill-defined subterminal streaks. Hindwing: cell white traversed longitudinally by two short black lines, the upper one forked near apex; a discal series of broad white streaks from the dorsal margin in the interspaces 1 to 7, the streaks in interspace 2 to 6 short and more or less rectangular; transverse series of postdiscal and subterminal white spots beyond, the postdiscal spots in interspaces 6 and 7 coalescent with the discal streaks in those interspaces; finally, a tornal prominent ochraceous-yellow spot. Underside similar, the ground colour outwardly on the forewing and over the whole of the hindwing more or less of a chestnut tint; markings similar to those on the upperside but broader and on the forewing diffuse towards the apex; on the hindwing the discal streak in interspace 7 is absent and there is an edging of white anteriorly in the yellow spot at the tornal angle. Antennae, head, thorax and abdomen black; the head and thorax spotted with white; the abdomen with three rows of white spots along the sides. Female has the markings larger than the male and mostly of a much paler colour; the submarginal spots of the hindwing are specially enlarged. The forewings have often some minute linear spots between the outer margin and the submarginal series of rounded markings in both sexes. The yellow anal spot is slightly variable in size. (Rothschild quoted in Bingham.)

General Info About Papilio epycides
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Attributes of Papilio epycides
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
White
Habitat
This butterfly flies from low elevations to 4,000 feet (1,200 m) in March and April.
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar from lantana, flower nectar from bougainvillea, flower nectar from jasminum, flower nectar from ixora, flower nectar from hibiscus
Larva Food Source
Citrus species leaves, murraya species leaves, bergera koenigii leaves, aegle marmelos leaves, ruta graveolens leaves
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Papilio epycides
It is not considered rare in India where the nominate subspecies is protected by law. There are no known threats to the species.
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Distribution Area of Papilio epycides
The butterfly is found in India from Nepal to north Myanmar right across Sikkim, Bhutan, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. It is also found in Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Kampuchea, peninsular Malaysia and southern China (including Taiwan).
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Life Cycle of Papilio epycides
Egg The initial stage involves a tiny, generally spherical or ovular egg. At this stage, the developing papilio epycides is protected by a hard shell, and it undergoes cell division preparing to hatch.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva of the papilio epycides emerges, often showing a pronounced appetite for host plant leaves. This segmented creature may possess vibrant colors or patterns for camouflage or warning.
Pupal The larva eventually forms a pupa, where it undergoes metamorphosis. During this resting phase, the papilio epycides is generally immobile and undergoes significant transformation inside a protective casing.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult papilio epycides’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Interesting Facts About Papilio epycides
Despite its delicate appearance, papilio epycides has a unique ability to thermoregulate using wing-basking behaviour, enabling it to remain active in cooler temperatures.
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Scientific Classification of Papilio epycides
Tips for Finding Papilio epycides
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Youth Habitat of Papilio epycides
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests
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Adult Habitat of Papilio epycides
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests, Savannas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
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When is the Best Time to Observe Papilio epycides
The suitable time to find papilio epycides is usually during daylight hours, particularly when it is warm and sunny, as this is when they are most active.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Papilio epycides
Ideal weather conditions for finding papilio epycides are warm, sunny days with little to no wind. Papilio epycides are less likely to be active during rainy, windy, or cold conditions.
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How and Where Can You Find Papilio epycides at Different Life Stages
Egg Papilio epycides eggs are often laid on the host plants that caterpillars will feed on. To find them, inspect the undersides of leaves and stems of known host plants in the area.
Larva Papilio epycides larvae, or caterpillars, feed on specific host plants and can be found by carefully searching the foliage of these plants, looking for signs of feeding such as chewed leaves or frass (caterpillar droppings).
Pupal Papilio epycides pupae may be attached to host plants, hidden within leaf litter, or found on structures near host plants. Careful inspection of potential pupation sites, especially in sheltered areas, can yield sightings.
Adult Papilio epycides adults can be found visiting flowers, sipping nectar, or basking in the sun to regulate their body temperature. Look for them in open, sunny areas with abundant flowering plants, particularly during the warmest parts of the day.
Are Papilio epycides harmful?
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Are Papilio epycides harmful to humans?

They are not a poisonous butterfly, but they have a special gland that secretes bad smells and chemicals.
Beneficial Effects of Papilio epycides
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Pollination Behavior Reason
Collect Pollen To Feed Offspring
Papilio epycides is a dainty pollinator often observed flitting from flower to flower. Attracted to the vibrant colors and distinct shapes of Asteraceae, it delicately collects pollen on its body. The pollen is primarily gathered to nourish its offspring, inadvertently resulting in pollination as it moves among blooms.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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