Common Mormon
Image: Suresh Khole (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Common NameCommon Mormon
Scientific NamePapilio polytes
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)90
Primary Colorsblack, white, red
HabitatGardens, open woodlands, agricultural areas, urban parks
Geographic RangeSouth Asia, Southeast Asia, East Asia (including India, Sri Lanka, China, Japan, Philippines)
Host PlantsCitrus spp., Murraya koenigii, Aegle marmelos, Clausena excavata
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple broods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are initially bird-dropping mimics, later becoming green with cryptic markings. Pupation occurs in a chrysalis that resembles a twig or dry leaf.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its overall black coloration with a distinct white band on the hindwings and a row of red/orange lunules. Females can be polymorphic, mimicking other unpalatable swallowtail species.
Description
A medium-sized to large black butterfly with a prominent white band across the hindwings and a series of red or orange crescent-shaped spots along the hindwing margin. Females exhibit mimicry, often resembling unpalatable species.
