Tiger Mimic-Queen
Common NameTiger Mimic-Queen
Scientific NameDanaus ismare
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyDanainae
Wingspan (mm)70
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsorange, black, white
HabitatTropical forests, forest edges, clearings, plantations
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia (Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia)
Host PlantsCynanchum, Asclepiadaceae
Flight PeriodYear-round
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on toxic host plants (milkweeds/dogbanes), sequestering toxins to make them unpalatable. The pupa is typically green or pale, often with metallic spots, leading to complete metamorphosis.
Identification TipsKey features include the tawny and black striped pattern, white spots on the black wing margins, and distinct black antennae with bright yellow tips. It is part of a mimicry complex with other toxic Danainae species.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with tawny-orange wings heavily marked with broad black stripes and veins, and a black margin adorned with a series of white spots. Its body is black with white spots, and its antennae have distinctive yellow tips.
