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Common mormon

Common mormon

Papilio polytes

A species of Swallowtails, Also known as Common mormon swallowtail

The common mormon (Papilio polytes) is a beautiful, black butterfly with unique hindwings that have orange and white colorings and two spots jutting out. They are named after the Mormon religion, as the butterflies participate in polygamy, which is a common practice for Mormons. They are also known to mimic red-bodied swallowtail, who are inedible.

General Info About Common mormon
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Attributes of Common mormon
Colors
Black
Red
White
Habitat
forest; thorn scrub; beach hinterland; park; garden
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar from lantana, flower nectar from jasminum, flower nectar from duranta, flower nectar from hibiscus, flower nectar from buddleja
Larva Food Source
Citrus leaves, ruta leaves, murraya leaves, aegle marmelos leaves, citrus limon leaves
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Common mormon is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Common mormon 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 mormon 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 mormon
It is very common, but not threatened.
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Distribution Area of Common mormon
Asia
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Life Cycle of Common mormon
Egg The egg stage for common mormon begins with the female depositing eggs on a host plant. The eggs are small, round, and often have a distinct color indicating their fertility. This stage is primarily for the development of the embryo inside the egg.
Larva Common mormon at the larva stage, commonly known as a caterpillar, is focused on eating and growing. It has a worm-like shape with distinct color patterns that may change with each molting. Its size increases significantly during this stage.
Pupal In the pupa stage, common mormon undergoes transformation inside a chrysalis. It’s immobile, and the shape transitions from larva to adult. Color may blend with the environment for camouflage, while internal structures reform, preparing for the adult phase.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult common mormon’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 survival.
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Adult Size of Common mormon
9 - 11 cm
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Predators of Common mormon Larvae
Birds, rodents, parasitic wasps, praying mantises
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Predators of Adult Common mormon
Birds, spiders, reptiles
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Interesting Facts About Common mormon
The common mormon has the remarkable ability to mimic other butterfly species as a defense strategy, fooling predators into thinking it's less palatable than it really is.
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Scientific Classification of Common mormon
Tips for Finding Common mormon
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Youth Habitat of Common mormon
Forests and Woodlands, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
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Adult Habitat of Common mormon
Forests and Woodlands, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas, Tropical Rainforests
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How Can You Attract Common mormon
Common mormon can be attracted using bait traps with sweet substances like rotting fruit, fermented sugar solutions, or special pheromone lures for capturing adults.
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Habitat Preferences of Common mormon Through Different Life Stages
Eggs of common mormon are commonly found on the underside of leaves of host plants, typically citrus species, which provide camouflage. Caterpillars prefer feeding on these same host plant leaves, often staying well-hidden within foliage to avoid predators. Pupae generally attach themselves to the branches or trunks of the host plants or nearby structures, blending in with the bark or surrounding environment. When searching for these stages, one would closely examine the host plants, looking for eggs under leaves, inspecting for caterpillars among the foliage, and scanning trunks and branches for pupae. Adults, being highly mobile, are found near nectar sources like flowering gardens where they feed.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Common mormon
The best time to find common mormon is during warm days when they are active, usually late morning through to the afternoon. Early stages are best searched for during the daytime, while adults might be more abundant during late afternoon when temperatures are cooler.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Common mormon
Common mormon is typically easier to find in warm, dry weather. Rain can limit their activity, and cold temperatures may make them less visible as they seek shelter.
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How and Where Can You Find Common mormon at Different Life Stages
Egg Common mormon eggs are often laid on the undersides of host plant leaves. To find them, inspect the foliage of known host plants, looking for small, spherical objects.
Larva Common mormon larvae are caterpillars that can be found feeding on host plants. Locate them by carefully examining the leaves and stems for signs of feeding, such as nibbled edges or frass.
Pupal To find common mormon pupae, search around the base of host plants or in the plant's foliage for chrysalises that are often camouflaged. Check crevices or protected areas where they might be attached.
Adult Common mormon adults can be located by looking for them feeding on nectar from flowers, puddling in wet areas for minerals, or patrolling for mates. Visit gardens or fields with abundant flowering plants during suitable weather conditions.
Are Common mormon harmful?
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Usually, the common mormon 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 mormon harmful to humans?

They are not a poisonous butterfly, but they have a special gland that secretes bad smells and chemicals.
Beneficial Effects of Common mormon
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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
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Common mormon actively participates in the pollination process, often attracted to flowers by colorful displays, enticing scents, or unique shapes. As they seek nourishment from pollen, their bodies inadvertently collect and transfer pollen grains, facilitating the fertilization of other plants. Common mormon contributes significantly to plant diversity and ecosystem health through this symbiotic relationship.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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