Blue Monarch
Common NameBlue Monarch
Scientific NameTirumala limniace
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyDanainae
Wingspan (mm)85
Primary Colorsblack, pale blue
HabitatOpen forests, forest edges, gardens, scrubland
Geographic RangeSouth Asia, Southeast Asia, parts of Australia
Host PlantsAsclepias, Ceropegia, Marsdenia, Tylophora
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are typically striped with black and yellow/white bands, often with fleshy filaments. Pupae are green chrysalises.
Identification TipsIdentified by its black and pale blue coloration, with distinct elongated streaks on the forewings and rows of spots on both wings, differentiating it from similar *Tirumala* species.
Description
A medium to large butterfly with black wings adorned with numerous pale blue, semi-transparent spots and streaks, including elongated streaks on the forewings.
