Common lime butterfly

Papilio demoleus

Papilio demoleus, commonly known as the Lime Swallowtail or Common Lime Butterfly, is a butterfly species found in many parts of Asia. Here's an overview of its characteristics and life cycle:

Overview:

The Lime Swallowtail is a medium-sized butterfly known for its distinctive colors and patterns. It is a member of the Papilionidae family and is widely distributed across Asia, including India, Southeast Asia, and parts of Australia.

Detailed Appearance:

  1. Adult Butterfly:

    • The wingspan of the Lime Swallowtail ranges from approximately 80 to 100 millimeters (3.1 to 3.9 inches).
    • The upper side of the wings is black with prominent yellow or pale green markings.
    • The hindwings have a series of black spots and tails.

  2. Caterpillar (Larva):

    • The caterpillar has a unique appearance with a lime green body and black markings.
    • It has a pair of retractable orange horns called osmeterium that emit a foul odor as a defense mechanism.

Life Cycle:

  1. Egg: Adult females lay eggs on the host plants, which are typically citrus plants, especially lime and lemon trees.

  2. Caterpillar (Larva):

    • The caterpillar hatches from the egg and undergoes several molts, feeding on the leaves of the host plant.

  3. Pupa (Chrysalis):

    • The caterpillar pupates by attaching itself to a substrate, forming a chrysalis.

  4. Adult Butterfly:

    • The adult butterfly emerges from the chrysalis, and the life cycle begins anew.

Habitat:

Lime Swallowtails are adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including gardens, parks, and natural areas. They are often seen in areas where their preferred host plants grow.

Behavior:

These butterflies are known for their strong and swift flight. They are active during the day and are often observed nectaring on flowers.

Role in Pollination:

As pollinators, Lime Swallowtails play a role in the reproduction of flowering plants by transferring pollen between flowers while feeding on nectar.

Protection and Management:

The Lime Swallowtail is not considered a pest and is generally beneficial due to its role in pollination. Conservation efforts to maintain suitable habitats with diverse plant species can contribute to the well-being of this butterfly.

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