Plain Tiger
Image: Aaron Mboma (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Common NamePlain Tiger
Scientific NameDanaus chrysippus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyDanainae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsorange, black, white
HabitatOpen country, grasslands, scrub, gardens, agricultural areas
Geographic RangeAfrica, Asia, Australia, parts of Southern Europe
Host PlantsCalotropis procera, Asclepias curassavica, Cynanchum acutum, Pergularia daemia
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; multiple broods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are striped black, white, and yellow with fleshy filaments. Pupae are green with golden spots, often suspended upside down, from which the adult butterfly emerges.
Identification TipsKey features include the bright orange wings with strong black venation, the black apex of the forewing with white spots, and the black-spotted border of the hindwing. Males possess a distinct black scent patch on the hindwing.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with bright orange wings, prominent black veins, and black apical patches on the forewings adorned with white spots. The hindwings feature a black border with white spots.
