Blue-banded Eggfly
Common NameBlue-banded Eggfly
Scientific NameHypolimnas alimena
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Primary Colorsblack, blue, white
HabitatRainforests, wet sclerophyll forests, open woodlands, gardens
Geographic RangeNorthern and eastern Australia, New Guinea, and surrounding islands
Host PlantsPipturus argenteus, Ficus spp., Urticaceae family plants
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, warmer months in subtropical areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the underside of host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny and feed on the foliage, while pupae are typically suspended by the cremaster.
Identification TipsEasily identified by the prominent, iridescent blue bands on its otherwise black wings, along with the distinctive white spots on the wing margins. Males and females are similar in appearance.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with velvety black wings adorned with striking iridescent blue bands across both forewings and hindwings, complemented by a series of white spots along the outer margins.
