Great Eggfly
Image: Vedant Raju Kasambe (CC BY 4.0)
Common NameGreat Eggfly
Scientific NameHypolimnas bolina
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsbrown, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, gardens, parks, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeTropical and subtropical Asia, Australia, and parts of Africa (Indo-Australian region, extending to Madagascar)
Host PlantsPortulaca, Sida, Fleurya, Laportea, Asystasia, Pseuderanthemum
Flight PeriodAll year in tropical regions, multiple broods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are spiny, dark, and feed on various plants, while pupae are typically green or brown and suspended head-down.
Identification TipsMales have prominent iridescent blue-purple patches on the upperside, bordered by white. Females are polymorphic, often mimicking other species, but typically have large white patches on a dark background. The underside pattern with the broad pale band and white spots is a key identifier.
Description
This butterfly displays a predominantly dark brown underside with a broad, lighter brown submarginal band and a series of white spots along the termen. The upperside (not visible) typically features large white patches, often with iridescent blue or purple sheen.
