Orange Oakleaf
Image: Unknown authorUnknown author (CC BY 4.0)
Common NameOrange Oakleaf
Scientific NameKallima inachus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)95
Primary Colorsblue, black, orange, brown
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeSouth Asia, Southeast Asia, East Asia
Host PlantsStrobilanthes, Pseuderanthemum
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, with peaks during monsoon seasons
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly, larvae are spiny and feed on host plant leaves, and pupae are camouflaged as leaves or twigs before the adult emerges.
Identification TipsKey features include the remarkable dead-leaf mimicry on the underside of the wings when at rest, the iridescent blue and black upper side with an orange forewing band, and the pointed forewing apex.
Description
This butterfly displays a vibrant iridescent blue and black upper side with orange patches, contrasting sharply with its cryptic, dead-leaf-mimicking underside.
