Large Assyrian
Common NameLarge Assyrian
Scientific NamePhalanta alcippe
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Primary Colorsorange, brown, reddish-brown
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, open woodlands, gardens, scrubland
Geographic RangeSouth Asia, Southeast Asia (e.g., India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
Host PlantsFlacourtia indica, Smilax, Populus, Salix
Flight PeriodYear-round
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are typically spiny, feeding on various host plants before pupating into a chrysalis, which often mimics a dry leaf or twig.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive reddish-brown underside with a complex network of wavy lines and small, dark, ocelli-like spots, especially on the hindwings.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with warm reddish-brown wings on the underside, adorned with intricate wavy patterns and small dark spots, often with a subtle purplish tint towards the wing margins.
