Emerald Swallowtail
Common NameEmerald Swallowtail
Scientific NamePapilio palinurus
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)90
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, green
HabitatTropical rainforests, secondary forests, forest edges
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia (Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
Host PlantsEuodia species
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: eggs laid on host plants, larvae (caterpillars) feed on leaves, pupate into a chrysalis, and emerge as adult butterflies.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its vibrant, metallic emerald-green bands across black wings and prominent tails on the hindwings. The green coloration is structural, changing with viewing angle.
Description
A striking butterfly with velvety black wings adorned with brilliant, iridescent emerald-green bands that shimmer in the light. It possesses characteristic swallowtail 'tails' on its hindwings.
