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Indian sunbeam

Indian sunbeam

Curetis thetis

A species of Sunbeams

Curetis thetis, the Indian sunbeam, is a species of lycaenid or blue butterfly found in Indomalayan realm.

General Info About Indian sunbeam
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Attributes of Indian sunbeam
Colors
Black
Red
White
Habitat
The butterfly occurs in Peninsular India, south of the Himalayas, but not in the desert tracts or in areas with a scanty rainfall; parts of Assam; Saurashtra; Bengal, Sylhet onto Myanmar. It is also found in the Nicobar Islands.
It is also found in Sri Lanka, Java, Philippines, northern Sulawesi and Selajar.
Adult Food Sources
Tridax procumbens flowers, ixora coccinea flowers, lantana camara flowers, eupatorium odoratum flowers, ageratum conyzoides flowers
Larva Food Source
Terminalia catappa leaves, terminalia chebula leaves, terminalia belerica leaves, terminalia paniculata leaves, terminalia arjuna leaves
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Indian sunbeam is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Indian sunbeam is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Indian sunbeam
It is not considered rare.
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Distribution Area of Indian sunbeam
The butterfly occurs in Peninsular India, south of the Himalayas, but not in the desert tracts or in areas with a scanty rainfall; parts of Assam; Saurashtra; Bengal, Sylhet onto Myanmar. It is also found in the Nicobar Islands. It is also found in Sri Lanka, Java, Philippines, northern Sulawesi and Selajar.
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Life Cycle of Indian sunbeam
Egg After oviposition, the egg of indian sunbeam develops until the larva is ready to emerge. The eggs are tiny and inconspicuous, often laid on plant material, and may vary in color.
Larva The larva, or caterpillar, of indian sunbeam is designed for feeding and growth. It is worm-like in shape and has chewing mouthparts. It can exhibit diverse colors for camouflage or warning.
Pupal The pupa of indian sunbeam serves as a transformation chamber. It ranges from brown to green, blending with the environment. Within it, the indian sunbeam reorganizes into its adult form.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult indian sunbeam develops wings often adorned with vibrant colors and patterns. It is now capable of flight, reproduction, and nectar feeding.
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Interesting Facts About Indian sunbeam
Indian sunbeam has remarkable navigation skills, able to return to specific sites even after being displaced by significant distances.
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Scientific Classification of Indian sunbeam
Tips for Finding Indian sunbeam
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Youth Habitat of Indian sunbeam
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests
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Adult Habitat of Indian sunbeam
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Indian sunbeam
Flowers rich in nectar that attract indian sunbeam or baiting with fermenting fruits can be used to lure them into a specific area.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Indian sunbeam
Clear, calm weather without strong winds or rain is ideal for spotting indian sunbeam as they are likely to be out feeding on nectar or mating.
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How and Where Can You Find Indian sunbeam at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of indian sunbeam are usually laid on the host plants. Look for tiny, spherical or ovular eggs on the underside of leaves or near flower buds of the specific host plants.
Larva Larvae or caterpillars of indian sunbeam can be found on or near their host plants. Search for them by inspecting the leaves for nibbling marks, frass (caterpillar droppings), or the caterpillars themselves, which are generally camouflaged.
Pupal Pupae of indian sunbeam can often be found attached to the host plant or nearby structures. To find them, look for chrysalises on stems, leaves, or even the underside of branches, camouflaged as part of the plant.
Adult Adult indian sunbeam are typically found near the habitats of their larval food plants or sipping nectar from flowers. To find them, visit floral-rich areas, gardens, or meadows during suitable weather and times.
Are Indian sunbeam harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Indian sunbeam
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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, Shape
Indian sunbeam is a diligent pollinator, flitting amongst blooms, drawn to their vivid colors and distinct shapes. Amidst its quest for nourishment, it inadvertently collects and transfers pollen, contributing to the cross-pollination of various plants.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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