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Torquatus swallowtail

Torquatus swallowtail

Papilio torquatus

A species of Swallowtails

Papilio torquatus, the torquatus swallowtail, is a swallowtail butterfly in the subfamily Papilioninae. It is found from northern Argentina to Mexico. The wingspan is 75–80 millimetres (3.0–3.1 in). Adults strongly resemble Papilio garleppi. The larvae feed on the leaves of Citrus species. Full-grown larvae are mottled in dull tones of brown, greenish-yellow and whitish. It resembles a bird dropping.

General Info About Torquatus swallowtail
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Attributes of Torquatus swallowtail
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from lantana camara, bougainvillea glabra, hibiscus rosa-sinensis, ixora coccinea, and thunbergia grandiflora
Larva Food Source
Leaves of rutaceae family plants such as lime, citrus x latifolia; bitter orange, citrus aurantium; pomelo, citrus maxima; common rue, ruta graveolens; and lemon, citrus limon
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
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
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Species Status of Torquatus swallowtail
Common and widespread
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Distribution Area of Torquatus swallowtail
Northern Argentina, Mexico
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Life Cycle of Torquatus swallowtail
Egg The egg stage for torquatus swallowtail begins when a female deposits her eggs on a suitable host plant. These eggs are typically tiny, spherical, and may vary in color. They are the dormant phase before larval development initiates.
Larva After hatching, the larva of torquatus swallowtail emerges as a caterpillar. This stage is characterized by rapid growth through molting. The caterpillar has a cylindrical body, chewing mouthparts for feeding, and its color and patterns serve as camouflage or warning signals to predators.
Pupal The larva of torquatus swallowtail transitions into a pupa, enclosed in a chrysalis. This phase is when radical transformation occurs. The pupa is generally immobile, with significant internal changes as the body structures reorganize into the adult form.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult torquatus 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 Torquatus swallowtail
Some torquatus swallowtail species create ultrasonic sounds as a defense mechanism against echolocating bats.
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Scientific Classification of Torquatus swallowtail
Tips for Finding Torquatus swallowtail
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Youth Habitat of Torquatus swallowtail
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests
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Adult Habitat of Torquatus swallowtail
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Gardens and Orchards
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How Can You Attract Torquatus swallowtail
Since torquatus swallowtail feeds on nectar, setting up traps with sweet baits or planting nectar-rich flowers can attract adults.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Torquatus swallowtail
Sunny and warm conditions with little wind are ideal, as torquatus swallowtail are less active in cold or rainy weather.
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How and Where Can You Find Torquatus swallowtail at Different Life Stages
Egg Torquatus swallowtail eggs are typically laid on the host plants. Identify the host plant species and inspect the leaves for small, round eggs.
Larva Torquatus swallowtail larvae, or caterpillars, are herbivorous and can be found on or near their host plants. Look for signs of feeding, such as chewed leaves, and carefully check the plant for caterpillars.
Pupal Torquatus swallowtail pupae, or chrysalides, are often hidden in the vegetation or sometimes on structures near the host plants. They can be found by thoroughly searching the potential pupation sites, such as the underside of leaves or tree trunks.
Adult Torquatus swallowtail adults are butterflies that can be found flying around or feeding on the nectar of flowers. Observing flowering plants, especially those known to attract butterflies, is a good way to locate them.
Are Torquatus swallowtail harmful?
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Are Torquatus 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 Torquatus swallowtail
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color
Torquatus swallowtail visits various flowers attracted by their vivid colors. While feeding on nectar, it inadvertently transfers pollen, assisting in plant reproduction. They don't show a preference for any specific flower type, making their pollination behavior vital for a diverse range of plant species.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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