Common Rose Swallowtail
Common NameCommon Rose Swallowtail
Scientific NamePachliopta aristolochiae
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, white, pink
HabitatForest edges, open woodlands, gardens, cultivated areas
Geographic RangeSouth Asia, Southeast Asia, parts of China
Host PlantsAristolochia indica, Aristolochia tagala, Aristolochia bracteolata
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple broods
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are dark, spiny, and feed on toxic Aristolochia species, accumulating toxins. Pupae are camouflaged, resembling a twig or dry leaf.
Identification TipsLook for the combination of black wings with white veins on the forewings, a large white patch on the hindwings, and a row of bright pink/crimson spots along the hindwing margin. The reddish-pink body is also a key identifier.
Description
This is a striking black butterfly with prominent white veins on its forewings. Its hindwings display a large central white patch and a distinctive row of bright pink or crimson spots along the margin, often with short tails.
