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Papilio clytia

Papilio clytia

A species of Swallowtails

Papilio clytia is a swallowtail butterfly found in south and southeast Asia. The butterfly belongs to the subgenus Chilasa, the black-bodied swallowtails. It serves as an excellent example of a Batesian mimic among the Indian butterflies.

General Info About Papilio clytia
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Attributes of Papilio clytia
Adult Food Sources
Lantana, jatropha, ixora, hibiscus, pentas
Larva Food Source
Citrus plant leaves, rue, murraya, citrus limon, citrus aurantium
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
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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Life Cycle of Papilio clytia
Egg The egg stage is the first phase of life for papilio clytia, where it exists as a small, often spherical ovum. At this stage, the coloration may blend with the environment for camouflage, providing protection from predators.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva of papilio clytia emerges as a caterpillar. It is elongated with a primary focus on feeding to grow. The larva sheds its skin multiple times, displaying different patterns and colors after each molt.
Pupal The pupal stage is a transition period during which papilio clytia undergoes metamorphosis. Encased within a chrysalis, the organism is mostly immobile. The pupa's color and texture often mimic the surrounding to avoid predation.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult papilio clytia'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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Predators of Adult Papilio clytia
Birds, spiders, mammals (like bats), reptiles (such as lizards)
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Interesting Facts About Papilio clytia
Papilio clytia has the remarkable ability to modify its wing patterns and colors through each molt, mimicking the appearance of distasteful species to evade predators.
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Scientific Classification of Papilio clytia
Tips for Finding Papilio clytia
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Youth Habitat of Papilio clytia
Tropical Rainforests, Forests and Woodlands
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Adult Habitat of Papilio clytia
Tropical Rainforests, Forests and Woodlands, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
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When is the Best Time to Observe Papilio clytia
The best time to find adult papilio clytia is usually mid-morning to early afternoon when temperatures are warmer and the sun is out. For caterpillar stages, searching during daylight hours is advisable.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Papilio clytia
Papilio clytia are likely to be active and easier to find on warm, sunny days. Too much wind, rain, or cold can lower their activity levels and make them harder to spot.
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How and Where Can You Find Papilio clytia at Different Life Stages
Egg Papilio clytia eggs are typically laid on the host plants. To find them, inspect the leaves of host plants for small spherical or spindle-shaped eggs.
Larva Papilio clytia caterpillars can be found on their host plants, where they feed on leaves. Look for signs of feeding, such as chewed leaves, and search the plant systematically.
Pupal Papilio clytia chrysalises can be camouflaged and difficult to spot. They may be attached to plant stems or leaves, or beneath ledges. Look closely at potential pupation sites around the host plant area.
Adult Adult papilio clytia can be found near nectar sources such as flowers. They are also attracted to bright colors and can be found basking in sunny areas. Walking slowly through suitable habitat and watching for their flight patterns is a good strategy.
Are Papilio clytia harmful?
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Are Papilio clytia 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 clytia
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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, Smell, Shape
Papilio clytia partakes in pollination by visiting flowers primarily for feeding on their nectar. During this process, pollen sticks to its body and is inadvertently transferred between the flowers it visits. This colorful pollinator is strongly attracted to the vivid hues and fragrances of various blossoms and plays a vital role in the ecosystem's reproductive cycle.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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