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Alpine black swallowtail

Alpine black swallowtail

Papilio maackii

A species of Swallowtails

Papilio maackii, the alpine black swallowtail, is a butterfly of the family Papilionidae. It is found in Central Asia, Japan, China and South Korea. The larvae feed on Zanthoxylum ailanthoides, Euodia meliaefolia, Orixa japonica and Phellodendron amurense.

General Info About Alpine black swallowtail
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Attributes of Alpine black swallowtail
Colors
Brown
Black
Green
Red
Orange
Purple
Habitat
lowland mixed forest; montane mixed forest
Adult Food Sources
Lonicera japonica (japanese honeysuckle) nectar, aster sp. (aster) nectar, buddleja davidii (butterfly bush) nectar, syringa vulgaris (common lilac) nectar, various flowering plants' nectar
Larva Food Source
Prunus padus (bird cherry), prunus grayana (gray's bird cherry), prunus ssiori (sakhalin cherry), prunus takesimensis (takeshima cherry), philadelphus schrenkii (mock-orange)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Alpine black swallowtail is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Alpine black swallowtail
Common
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Distribution Area of Alpine black swallowtail
Central Asia, Japan, China, South Korea
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Life Cycle of Alpine black swallowtail
Egg The alpine black swallowtail egg is rounded, minuscule, and pale. It serves as a protective case for the developing embryo. Eggs are often laid on host plants and can vary in coloration.
Larva After hatching, the larva or caterpillar emerges, consuming the eggshell and host plant. The larva is characterized by its tube-like body, which may display striking colors and patterns to deter predators.
Pupal The caterpillar transforms into a pupa, experiencing significant internal changes. The pupal case hardens and can blend into the environment, providing camouflage as the alpine black swallowtail restructures internally.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult alpine black 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.
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Interesting Facts About Alpine black swallowtail
The alpine black swallowtail can taste with its hind feet, a rare trait that allows it to evaluate leaf suitability for laying eggs before actual oviposition.
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Scientific Classification of Alpine black swallowtail
Tips for Finding Alpine black swallowtail
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Youth Habitat of Alpine black swallowtail
Forests and Woodlands, Rotting and Decaying Matter
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Adult Habitat of Alpine black swallowtail
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Floral Areas
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How Can You Attract Alpine black swallowtail
Sugar or fruit-based baits: alpine black swallowtail are attracted to sweet substances, so using baits with overripe fruits or sugar water can help attract them during the adult stage.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Alpine black swallowtail
Warm and sunny days with little to no wind: alpine black swallowtail prefer to fly in good weather conditions, as cold, rainy, or windy weather can inhibit their activity and make them less visible.
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How and Where Can You Find Alpine black swallowtail at Different Life Stages
Egg Egg clusters of alpine black swallowtail are usually laid on the host plants. Look for tiny, spherical or oval shaped eggs on the underside of leaves, particularly on plants that caterpillars of alpine black swallowtail feed on.
Larva Caterpillar or larva of alpine black swallowtail can be found on or near their specific host plants. Carefully examine the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant, both on the surface and undersides, for active caterpillars or signs of feeding such as chewed leaves.
Pupal Pupae of alpine black swallowtail are often well camouflaged and can be found attached to structures or plants in the vicinity of the host plant. Look for chrysalises attached to stems, leaves, or even the bark of trees, typically in a well-hidden spot.
Adult Alpine black swallowtail adults are typically found in areas rich in flowers as they feed on nectar. Visit gardens, meadows, or wooded edges on sunny days and look for alpine black swallowtail fluttering near or landing on flowering plants.
Are Alpine black swallowtail harmful?
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Are Alpine black 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 Alpine black swallowtail
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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
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar, Accidental Contamination While Feeding On Nectar
Alpine black swallowtail is an effective pollinator, often observed fluttering from flower to flower. With a particular fondness for Asteraceae, this species is drawn to the bright colors and distinct shapes of these plants. While seeking out nectar, alpine black swallowtail inadvertently gets dusted with pollen, which is then transferred to other flowers, facilitating pollination.
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