Glasswing
Common NameGlasswing
Scientific NameParnassius glacialis
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyParnassiinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Primary Colorsblack, white, pale blue-grey
HabitatForests, subalpine meadows, mountainous regions
Geographic RangeEast Asia (Japan, Korea, China)
Host PlantsCorydalis ambigua, Corydalis fumariifolia
Flight PeriodMay to July
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants. Larvae are dark with rows of orange spots, feeding on Corydalis species. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon on the ground. Overwinters as an egg or young larva.
Identification TipsLook for the unique combination of translucent wings with dark veins, the striking black and white checkered pattern on the hindwings, and the black body with white spots. Distinguishable from other Parnassius species by specific wing patterns and markings.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with largely translucent, pale blue-grey wings featuring prominent dark veins and margins. The hindwings display a distinctive black and white checkered pattern near the body, and the body is black with white markings.
