Tailed Rustic
Common NameTailed Rustic
Scientific NameCupha erymanthis
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatForest edges, open woodlands, gardens, scrubland
Geographic RangeOriental region (India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, Southern China, Taiwan)
Host PlantsFlacourtia indica, Flacourtia jangomas, Salix tetrasperma, Scolopia chinensis
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny, and pupate into a green or brownish chrysalis suspended by the cremaster.
Identification TipsKey features include the striking bright orange and black pattern, especially the broad black forewing apex, and the wavy or dentate hindwing margin, which gives it the 'tailed' rustic name, though actual tails are often very short.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with vibrant orange wings adorned with prominent black markings, including a broad black apical patch on the forewing and a series of black spots and bands across both wings. The hindwing margin is distinctly wavy or dentate.
