Chocolate Tiger
Common NameChocolate Tiger
Scientific NameParantica melaneus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyDanainae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsblack, white, pale blue, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical evergreen forests, forest edges, open woodlands
Geographic RangeNortheast India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Southern China
Host PlantsTylophora, Cynanchum, Marsdenia
Flight PeriodYear-round (peak during monsoon season)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are typically striped and sequester toxins from host plants for defense. Pupae are green and chrysalis-like.
Identification TipsLook for the distinct black and translucent white/pale blue striped pattern on the wings, combined with the orange underside of the abdomen. Can be distinguished from similar species by the specific arrangement of its wing markings.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with black wings featuring prominent translucent white to pale blue streaks and spots. The body is black with an orange underside to the abdomen.
