Chain Swordtail
Common NameChain Swordtail
Scientific NameGraphium aristeus
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)70
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, pale blue, white
HabitatTropical forests, open woodlands, forest edges, often near streams
Geographic RangeIndia, Southeast Asia (Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines), New Guinea, Australia
Host PlantsUvaria, Desmos, Goniothalamus
Flight PeriodMultiple broods throughout the year in tropical regions
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed on Annonaceae species, and pupation occurs as a chrysalis, often camouflaged as a twig.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive black and pale blue/white striped pattern on the wings, especially the broad, pale central band on the forewings and the long, sword-like tails on the hindwings.
Description
A striking swallowtail butterfly characterized by its black wings with prominent pale blue to white stripes, and long, slender tails extending from the hindwings.
