Indian Purple Emperor
Common NameIndian Purple Emperor
Scientific NameApatura ambica
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyApaturinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Primary Colorspale blue, white, reddish-brown, black
HabitatForests, forest edges, clearings, often near streams
Geographic RangeHimalayas, Northeast India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, southern China
Host PlantsCeltis, Ulmus
Flight PeriodMarch to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green, slug-like, with two caudal tails. Pupae are green and suspended by the cremaster.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive pale bluish-white underside with broad reddish-brown bands and black markings. Males are easily identified by their iridescent purple upperside when seen in flight or with open wings.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a pale bluish-white underside marked by prominent reddish-brown bands and black spots, particularly on the hindwings. Males exhibit a striking iridescent purple sheen on their upperside.
