Tree nymph butterfly

Japan's largest tropical butterfly

Scientific name	Idea leuconoe
English name	Tree nymph butterfly
Japanese name	大胡麻斑
Classification	Insecta
Classification details	Lepidoptera Nymphalidae
Full length	13cm
Distribution	distributed in Southeast Asia

Characteristics

A large butterfly with radiating black spots on a white background. The opening length is up to 13 cm. It flies relatively slowly, and flutters while gliding. Males have an organ called a hair pencil that secretes pheromones to attract females.

Larvae are black and white striped with red spots. The pupae are also known to be golden in color.

Ecology

Inhabits forests and plains. It can breed throughout the year if there are Asclepiadaceae plants that the larvae feed on. Some individuals live for several months to a year even after becoming adults.

Habitat

Found along a paved road in the mountains. It fluttered about 3m high and flew from flower to flower. I was able to take a picture because it stopped flapping its wings when it perched on a flower. It was one size larger than the other butterflies and was powerful.