Malabar Rose
Common NameMalabar Rose
Scientific NamePachliopta pandiyana
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)90
Primary Colorsblack, pale grey, red
HabitatMoist deciduous and evergreen forests, especially in hilly regions
Geographic RangeWestern Ghats of southern India
Host PlantsAristolochia indica, Aristolochia tagala
Flight PeriodThroughout the year, peaking during monsoon (June-December)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants of the Aristolochiaceae family. Larvae are dark with fleshy spines, feeding on leaves before pupating. Adults emerge after metamorphosis.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its black wings with a large pale grey central patch and a row of pale grey submarginal spots on the hindwings, along with prominent tails. The red markings on the abdomen are also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized black butterfly with prominent pale grey patches and a series of submarginal spots on its hindwings, which also feature distinctive tails. The body is black with some red markings.
