Lesser Zebra
Common NameLesser Zebra
Scientific NameGraphium macareus
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)70
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, white
HabitatTropical forests, open woodlands, forest edges
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
Host PlantsUvaria, Desmos, Polyalthia
Flight PeriodThroughout the year (multiple broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: eggs laid singly on host plants, larvae feed on leaves, pupation occurs as a chrysalis, leading to the adult butterfly.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its bold black and white striped pattern, particularly the broad white bands on the forewings and the distinct row of white spots on the hindwing margins. Can be differentiated from similar 'zebra' swallowtails by the specific arrangement and width of its stripes.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with striking black and white striped wings, featuring broad white bands on the forewings and a series of white spots along the outer margins of the hindwings.
