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Malabar banded peacock swallowtail

Malabar banded peacock swallowtail

Papilio buddha

A species of Swallowtails

Adorning forests with vivid coloration, malabar banded peacock swallowtail flits with large, ornate wings that showcase an intricate pattern of eye spots designed to deter predators. Its caterpillars possess a unique osmeterium, an eversible organ that emits a foul scent when threatened, exemplifying a fascinating adaptation for defense in its early life stage.

General Info About Malabar banded peacock swallowtail
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Attributes of Malabar banded peacock swallowtail
Colors
Brown
Black
Green
Yellow
White
Cyan
Habitat
Forest; hills; open countryside
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar from lantana, flower nectar from hibiscus, flower nectar from jasminum, flower nectar from ixora, flower nectar from tridax
Larva Food Source
Aristolochia species leaves, birthwort (aristolochia tagala) leaves, aristolochia indica leaves, aristolochia bracteolata leaves, aristolochia acuminata leaves
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Malabar banded peacock swallowtail 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 Malabar banded peacock swallowtail 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 Malabar banded peacock swallowtail
This species is locally common and not rare. It is protected in India but not known to be threatened.
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Distribution Area of Malabar banded peacock swallowtail
Western Ghats of India
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Life Cycle of Malabar banded peacock swallowtail
Egg The egg stage begins with the female malabar banded peacock swallowtail laying eggs on host plants. These eggs are small, round, and initially can vary in color. Here, development within the egg takes place until the larva is ready to hatch.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva, or caterpillar, emerges. Its primary function at this time is to eat and grow. The caterpillar has a soft body, with distinct color patterns that may serve as camouflage or warning signs to predators.
Pupal After several molts, the larva enters the pupal stage. The caterpillar forms a chrysalis, where transformation occurs. During this time, the insect is seemingly dormant, but inside significant changes are taking place, reorganizing into the adult form.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult malabar banded peacock swallowtail’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 and nectar feeding.
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Interesting Facts About Malabar banded peacock swallowtail
Malabar banded peacock swallowtail's caterpillars can emit a foul-smelling secretion to deter predators, an unusual defense mechanism within its Order.
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Scientific Classification of Malabar banded peacock swallowtail
Tips for Finding Malabar banded peacock swallowtail
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Youth Habitat of Malabar banded peacock swallowtail
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests
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Adult Habitat of Malabar banded peacock swallowtail
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Malabar banded peacock swallowtail
Adult malabar banded peacock swallowtail may be attracted to bait stations using rotting fruit or other fermenting sweet substances as they feed on nectar.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Malabar banded peacock swallowtail
Dry and sunny conditions are generally most suitable for finding malabar banded peacock swallowtail, as wet weather may reduce their activity and make them harder to spot.
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How and Where Can You Find Malabar banded peacock swallowtail at Different Life Stages
Egg Malabar banded peacock swallowtail eggs are often laid individually on the host plants. To find them, inspect the underside of leaves of known host species for small, rounded eggs.
Larva Malabar banded peacock swallowtail caterpillars can be located by searching for chewed leaves or frass (caterpillar droppings) on or around host plants. Look for them during the day when they are most likely to be feeding.
Pupal Malabar banded peacock swallowtail pupae may be camouflaged and attached to branches or leaves of plants. They can be found by carefully examining potential pupation sites on or near the host plants.
Adult Malabar banded peacock swallowtail adults can be found flying in open areas, gardens, or near host plants. Spotting them may be easier when they are feeding on flower nectar or basking in the sun on perches.
Are Malabar banded peacock swallowtail harmful?
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Are Malabar banded peacock swallowtail harmful to humans?

They are not a poisonous butterfly, but they have a special gland that secretes bad smells and chemicals.
Beneficial Effects of Malabar banded peacock swallowtail
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Malabar banded peacock swallowtail is an active pollinator, although its primary intention is not to pollinate. While feeding on nectar with its long proboscis, it inadvertently picks up pollen on its body and transfers it to other flowers. This fortuitous pollination occurs due to the insect's constant search for floral resources.
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