Plain Lacewing Butterfly
Common NamePlain Lacewing Butterfly
Scientific NameCethosia cyane
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)80
Primary Colorsorange, black, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, open woodlands, gardens, forest edges
Geographic RangeIndian subcontinent to Southeast Asia (e.g., India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia)
Host PlantsPassiflora species
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on passionflower vines. Larvae are spiny and black with red markings. Pupae are ornate, often metallic gold or silver, resembling a dried leaf or jewel.
Identification TipsKey features include the bright orange, black, and white pattern, particularly the black spots on the hindwings and white patches on the forewing tips, combined with the unique scalloped wing edges. Often found near passionflower plants.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with vibrant orange wings, featuring black spots on the hindwings and broad black margins with white patches on the forewings, all set against distinctively scalloped edges.
