"predator avoidance"

#11545361

4 September 2024

Papilio polytes, commonly known as the Common Mormon, is a species of swallowtail butterfly widely distributed across Asia. This butterfly is renowned for the mimicry displayed by its numerous forms. The caterpillars of the Common Mormon can negatively impact crop yields. Interestingly, these caterpillars resemble bird droppings while resting on leaves, which helps them avoid predators. However, they are heavily parasitized by chalcidoid wasps, with over a hundred tiny wasps eventually emerging from each pupa. On September 4, 2024, in Tehatta, West Bengal, India, a tiny Common Mormon caterpillar was observed feeding on plant leaves, nearly camouflaged as it blended with the branches.

Restricted to Editorial Use Only.
Commercial use is not permitted without prior authorization.
Please contact us for more information.

#11545362

4 September 2024

Papilio polytes, commonly known as the Common Mormon, is a species of swallowtail butterfly widely distributed across Asia. This butterfly is renowned for the mimicry displayed by its numerous forms. The caterpillars of the Common Mormon can negatively impact crop yields. Interestingly, these caterpillars resemble bird droppings while resting on leaves, which helps them avoid predators. However, they are heavily parasitized by chalcidoid wasps, with over a hundred tiny wasps eventually emerging from each pupa. On September 4, 2024, in Tehatta, West Bengal, India, a tiny Common Mormon caterpillar was observed feeding on plant leaves, nearly camouflaged as it blended with the branches.

Restricted to Editorial Use Only.
Commercial use is not permitted without prior authorization.
Please contact us for more information.

#11545363

4 September 2024

Papilio polytes, commonly known as the Common Mormon, is a species of swallowtail butterfly widely distributed across Asia. This butterfly is renowned for the mimicry displayed by its numerous forms. The caterpillars of the Common Mormon can negatively impact crop yields. Interestingly, these caterpillars resemble bird droppings while resting on leaves, which helps them avoid predators. However, they are heavily parasitized by chalcidoid wasps, with over a hundred tiny wasps eventually emerging from each pupa. On September 4, 2024, in Tehatta, West Bengal, India, a tiny Common Mormon caterpillar was observed feeding on plant leaves, nearly camouflaged as it blended with the branches.

Restricted to Editorial Use Only.
Commercial use is not permitted without prior authorization.
Please contact us for more information.