Mimic Diadem
Common NameMimic Diadem
Scientific NameHypolimnas misippus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)78
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, white
HabitatOpen country, grasslands, cultivated areas, gardens, forest edges
Geographic RangePantropical (Africa, Asia, Australia, Caribbean, parts of South America)
Host PlantsAsystasia gangetica, Portulaca oleracea, Ruellia tuberosa, Sida rhombifolia, Abutilon indicum, Ipomoea spp.
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; multiple broods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny, dark-bodied with a reddish-brown head. Pupae are typically green or brown, suspended by the cremaster.
Identification TipsMales are easily identified by their striking black and white pattern. Females are polymorphic, with some forms mimicking the Plain Tiger (*Danaus chrysippus*) with orange and black patterns.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with predominantly black wings featuring large, distinct white patches on both the forewings and hindwings, and white-tipped antennae.
