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Spotted Palmfly

Spotted Palmfly

Elymnias malelas

A species of Elymnias

Elymnias malelas, the spotted palmfly, is a butterfly in the family Nymphalidae. It was described by William Chapman Hewitson in 1863. It is found in northern India and Indochina in the Indomalayan realm.

General Info About Spotted Palmfly
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Attributes of Spotted Palmfly
Colors
Brown
Black
White
Blue
Habitat
Forests
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar from lantana, jatropha, ixora, hibiscus, asters
Larva Food Source
Terminalia catappa leaves, pongamia pinnata leaves, plants in the family fabaceae
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Pollinator
The Spotted 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
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Spotted Palmfly
Common
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Distribution Area of Spotted Palmfly
Sikkim, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Langkawi, W.Malaysia
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Predators of Adult Spotted Palmfly
Birds, spiders, mantises, lizards, ants
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Interesting Facts About Spotted Palmfly
Spotted Palmfly exhibits unique sexual dimorphism; males showcase iridescent blue wings, whereas females mimic unpalatable butterflies for defense.
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Scientific Classification of Spotted Palmfly
Tips for Finding Spotted Palmfly
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Youth Habitat of Spotted Palmfly
Tropical Rainforests
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Habitat Preferences of Spotted Palmfly Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of spotted Palmfly are typically found on the underside of host plant leaves, where they are laid by the females. As larvae, spotted Palmfly can be found on or near their host plants, consuming the leaves. During the pupal stage, spotted Palmfly are generally attached to the stems or leaves of the host plants or hiding amongst the foliage. Lastly, adult spotted Palmfly are often seen fluttering around their habitats, which include tropical forested areas, gardens, or regions with their host plants. To locate these insects, look closely at the specified areas of their host plants during the appropriate stage of growth.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Spotted Palmfly
The best time to find spotted Palmfly would generally be during the daytime when adults are active and searching for nectar. Larval stages would be best sought after during the times of day when the temperature is not too extreme and the host plants are most accessible.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Spotted Palmfly
Weather conditions that are not too wet or too dry, with moderate temperatures, are most suitable for finding spotted Palmfly. Adult spotted Palmfly are likely to be more visible and active on sunny days with little to no wind.
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How and Where Can You Find Spotted Palmfly at Different Life Stages
Egg Spotted Palmfly eggs are typically laid on the underside of host plant leaves. To locate them, examine these leaves, particularly those plants known as host species for the spotted Palmfly.
Larva At the larval stage, spotted Palmfly can often be found on their host plants. Search by carefully inspecting the leaves and stems for caterpillars or signs of feeding, like holes in the leaves.
Pupal Spotted Palmfly chrysalises are usually well camouflaged. Look for them on the stems of plants or under leaves, where they often pupate near their larval feeding grounds.
Adult Spotted Palmfly as adults are most commonly found in areas with abundant flowers. Look for spotted Palmfly feeding on nectar during sunny and warm parts of the day, often in gardens or meadows with diverse flora.
Are Spotted Palmfly harmful?
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Are Spotted 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.
Beneficial Effects of Spotted Palmfly
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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
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Spotted Palmfly is an effective pollinator, flitting from flower to flower to consume pollen. Attracted primarily by the vibrant colors and unique shapes of blooms, these insects inadvertently collect and transfer pollen, aiding in plant reproduction.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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