Common Mormon
Order: Lepidoptera
Family: Papilionidae
Species: Papilio polytes
Etymology:
The genus Papilio is Latin for butterfly. Poly in the species is Greek for many or more.
Wing span:
3.5 - 4.25 inches (90 - 115 mm)
Habitat:
The Common Mormon is primarily found in the open plains, especially in areas where the host plant is found. The Common Mormon seems to do very well in urban situations.
Host Plant:
Citrus trees are the primary host plant but they will also feed on a variety of species in the family Rutaceae.
Life History:
The male and female adults tend to be very active fliers especially while nectaring. After mating, the females visit host plants, laying their eggs one at a time. The larvae feed on the host plant until they pupate in that host plant.
Flights:
There are multiple broods each year making it possible to find adults flying
almost all year round.
Fun Facts:
The Common Mormon is sexually dimorphic meaning the males and females look different from each other. Along with being sexual dimorphic the females are known to come in 3 different forms. One of those forms mimics Pachliopta aristolochiae (Common Rose) which is distasteful to predators. |
