Malayan Oakleaf
Common NameMalayan Oakleaf
Scientific NameKallima limborgii
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, purple
HabitatTropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia (e.g., Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, Indonesia)
Host PlantsStrobilanthes species, Pseuderanthemum species
Flight PeriodYear-round
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are typically dark and spiny, feeding on leaves, while pupae are often camouflaged to blend with their surroundings.
Identification TipsThe most distinctive feature is the perfect dead-leaf camouflage on the underside of the wings when closed, complete with a midrib line, vein patterns, and a petiole-like tail. The upperside is brightly colored, typically blue and orange.
Description
This butterfly is renowned for its remarkable dead-leaf mimicry on the underside of its wings, which are mottled brown and grey with vein-like patterns and a pointed tail resembling a leaf petiole.
