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Common palmfly

Common palmfly

Elymnias hypermnestra

A species of Elymnias

Adorning the understory of Asian forests, common palmfly displays a remarkable dimorphism between genders; the male boasts a velvety black upper wing with a vivid blue semi-circular band, while the female mimics the toxic Danainae with orange and white streaks, a testament to evolutionary survival strategies. Often glimpsed flitting near ground level, it feeds on decaying fruits and plant saps, forging a niche in the delicate balance of its woodland habitat.

General Info About Common palmfly
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Attributes of Common palmfly
Colors
Brown
White
Habitat
primary and secondary forest; oil palm ( Elaeis guineensis ) plantation; park; arecanut; coconut; ornamental palm
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar, overripe fruits, sap flows, animal dung fluids, decaying fruits
Larva Food Source
Musa spp. (bananas), ochlandra (a genus of bamboo), cocos nucifera (coconut palm), phoenix spp. (dates)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Common palmfly is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Common palmfly 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
The Common palmfly feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Common palmfly
It is found in South and Southeast Asia.
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Distribution Area of Common palmfly
Peninsular India, sub-Himalayas, Southeast Asia
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Life Cycle of Common palmfly
Egg The oval-shaped eggs of common palmfly are typically laid on host plants. They are minuscule and color varies, often reflecting the plant's hue to camouflage and protect from predators.
Larva Upon hatching, common palmfly enters its larval stage, where it's a caterpillar with distinct bands or patterns. It focuses on feeding and growth, molting several times as it outgrows its skin.
Pupal Having grown sufficiently, common palmfly forms a pupa, enclosing itself in a chrysalis. During this restful stage, it undergoes remarkable transformation, reorganizing internally without feeding.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult common palmfly’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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Adult Size of Common palmfly
9 - 11 cm
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Predators of Common palmfly Larvae
Formicidae (ants), araneae (spiders), vespidae (wasps), mantodea (mantises), aves (birds)
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Predators of Adult Common palmfly
Araneae (spiders), aves (birds), odonata (dragonflies), mantodea (mantises)
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Interesting Facts About Common palmfly
The common palmfly has a unique ability to mimic the appearance of leaves, not only in color but also in vein patterns and shape, enhancing its camouflage.
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Scientific Classification of Common palmfly
Tips for Finding Common palmfly
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Youth Habitat of Common palmfly
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests
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Adult Habitat of Common palmfly
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Common palmfly
Ripe fruit or fermented bait can attract adult common palmfly as they feed on various types of organic matter.
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Habitat Preferences of Common palmfly Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of common palmfly are typically found on the underside of host plant leaves in shaded, humid environments. As caterpillars, they reside on the leaves upon which they feed, preferring dense vegetation that provides both food and protection from predators. During the pupal stage, common palmfly often attach themselves to twigs or leaves in more secluded areas with ample foliage to conceal themselves as they undergo metamorphosis. To find these stages, one would scrutinize respective host plants and surrounding vegetation in tropical and subtropical forest habitats where these butterflies are known to thrive.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Common palmfly
Early morning or late afternoon are usually the best times to find common palmfly when they are most active.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Common palmfly
Common palmfly are more active in warm, sunny conditions, as they need to regulate their body temperature for flight.
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How and Where Can You Find Common palmfly at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of common palmfly are typically laid on host plants. Identifying the specific host plants and inspecting the undersides of leaves can help locate the eggs.
Larva Caterpillars or larvae of common palmfly are often found eating on the host plants. Look for chewed leaves and frass (caterpillar droppings) to help spot them.
Pupal Pupae of common palmfly may be found attached to plants or other structures near their host plants. They can sometimes be discovered by searching the areas around caterpillar feeding sites.
Adult Adult common palmfly are usually found near nectar sources or food plants. Searching flower gardens, meadows, or places with ripe fruit can be effective for locating the adults.
Are Common palmfly harmful?
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Usually, the common palmfly won't threaten or hurt humans. But remember that even a worm will turn. Remember to still be cautious.

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Are Common palmfly 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.
Harmful Effects of Common palmfly
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Hurt Plant

Common palmfly larvae feed on various plants without preference, causing defoliation that ranges from mild to severe depending on the infestation level. The affected plants may experience stunted growth and reduced photosynthesis.

More Effects of Common palmfly

Beneficial Effects of Common palmfly
Discover the hidden benefits of insects
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
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Common palmfly flutters from flower to flower, seeking out the rich rewards of pollen and nectar. Its role in pollination is incidental yet vital, as it feeds on the floral offerings and inadvertently carries pollen across a variety of plants, contributing to the biodiversity of ecosystems.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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