Painted Emperor
Common NamePainted Emperor
Scientific NameCharaxes candiope
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyCharaxinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Primary Colorswhite, brown, black, orange
HabitatForest edges, woodlands, savanna, riverine forests
Geographic RangeSub-Saharan Africa
Host PlantsCeltis africana, Croton sylvaticus, Trichilia dregeana
Flight PeriodYear-round (multiple broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with a rough texture and a distinctive horned head capsule. Pupae are green and suspended by the cremaster.
Identification TipsKey features include the intricate, cryptic underside pattern of white, brown, and black bands with orange spots, and the characteristic scalloped wing margins with short tails on the hindwings. The upperside (not visible here) is typically tawny orange with black markings.
Description
This butterfly displays a highly intricate and cryptic underside, featuring a complex mosaic of white, reddish-brown, and black bands and spots, with a row of orange spots along the outer margin of the hindwing. Its wings have a distinctive scalloped edge with short tails.
