Variable Diadem
Common NameVariable Diadem
Scientific NameHypolimnas anthedon
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)80
Primary Colorsblack, white, cream
HabitatForests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeSub-Saharan Africa (West, Central, and East Africa)
Host PlantsFicus spp., Urera hypselodendron, Laportea peduncularis
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are spiny and feed on various Urticaceae and Moraceae plants, pupating into a chrysalis before emerging as an adult.
Identification TipsLook for the combination of black wings with a prominent cream band on the hindwings and clear white spots on the forewings, often mimicking *Amauris* butterflies.
Description
This is a medium-sized butterfly with predominantly black wings, featuring a broad cream-colored band across the hindwings and distinct white spots on the forewings and hindwing margins.
