Fivebar Swordtail
Image: Vml 944 (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Common NameFivebar Swordtail
Scientific NameGraphium antiphates
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)70
Primary Colorswhite, black, red
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, open woodlands, gardens, often near streams
Geographic RangeSouth and Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, southern China, Malaysia, Indonesia
Host PlantsUvaria, Miliusa, Desmos
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical areas, peaking during monsoon season
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on young leaves of host plants. Larvae are green with yellow markings, and pupae are green or brown, resembling a twig, often with a horn-like projection.
Identification TipsLook for the white and black striped pattern, the row of bright red spots on the hindwing margin, and the prominent yellow eyes. Hindwings may have short tails or be tailless.
Description
A striking medium-sized butterfly characterized by its white wings boldly marked with thick black stripes and veins. The hindwings feature a distinctive row of bright red spots along their scalloped margin, and the butterfly has prominent yellow eyes.
