Formosan Swallowtail
Common NameFormosan Swallowtail
Scientific NamePachliopta horishana
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, red, white
HabitatSubtropical forests, mountainous regions, forest edges
Geographic RangeTaiwan
Host PlantsAristolochia zollingeriana, Aristolochia shimadai
Flight PeriodMarch to October, with multiple broods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on *Aristolochia* species, undergoing complete metamorphosis from egg to larva, pupa (chrysalis), and finally emerging as an adult butterfly.
Identification TipsKey features include the black body with a red thorax, distinct white patches on both forewings and hindwings, and a row of red-ringed black spots on the hindwing margins. It lacks the typical 'tails' found on many other swallowtail species.
Description
A striking black swallowtail with a red thorax, prominent white patches on the forewings and hindwings, and a series of red-ringed black spots along the margin of the hindwings.
