Big Greasy
Common NameBig Greasy
Scientific NameAcraea andromacha
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyAcraeinae
Wingspan (mm)57.5
Primary Colorstransparent, black, red, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, rainforest edges, suburban gardens, parks
Geographic RangeNorthern and eastern Australia, New Guinea
Host PlantsPassiflora foetida, Passiflora suberosa, Passiflora aurantia, Passiflora subpeltata
Flight PeriodAll year in tropical regions; spring to autumn in subtropical/temperate areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters on host plants. Larvae are spiny, black with yellow bands, and pupate as mottled brown and white chrysalises suspended head-down.
Identification TipsLook for the unique transparent wings with black spots and veins, combined with the reddish-orange basal patch on the hindwings. Its slow, deliberate flight is also a key characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly characterized by its largely transparent forewings with prominent black spots and veins, and black hindwings featuring a distinct reddish-orange basal patch and white markings. Its body is black with some red on the head.
