Great Mormon
Common NameGreat Mormon
Scientific NamePapilio memnon
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)135
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsblack, white, cream, red, blue
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, gardens, plantations
Geographic RangeSouth and Southeast Asia (India, Sri Lanka, China, Japan, Taiwan, Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia)
Host PlantsCitrus, Zanthoxylum, Toddalia, Euodia
Flight PeriodYear-round (multiple broods in tropical regions)
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae initially resemble bird droppings, later becoming green with cryptic patterns. Pupae are typically green or brown, camouflaged as twigs or leaves.
Identification TipsMales are easily identified by their distinct black and white forewing patch. Females are more challenging due to their extensive polymorphism and mimicry; look for the characteristic swallowtail shape and size, and observe their flight and habitat.
Description
A large, sexually dimorphic swallowtail butterfly. Males are typically black with a prominent white or cream patch on the forewing, while females are highly polymorphic, often mimicking other unpalatable butterflies with diverse patterns and colors including red, blue, and white markings.
