Crimson Rose

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Crimson Rose

*Pachliopta hector*

Wingspan: 9–12 cm

Family: Papilionidae

Conservation: Not Evaluated

Flight Period: Year-round (tropical regions)

Caterpillar Host Plants

Indian birthwort (*Aristolochia indica*) and other *Aristolochia* species

Adult Nectar Plants

Lantana, Clerodendrum, Duranta

Description
The Crimson Rose (Pachliopta hector) is one of India’s most striking swallowtail butterflies. With its bold crimson body and dark wings marked with bright red spots, it is unmistakable in appearance. A member of the Papilionidae family, this butterfly is found across South Asia, where it is protected under Indian law. Its bright coloration serves as a warning to predators, as the species is distasteful due to toxic compounds sequestered from its host plants.

Identification Tips

  • Wings are dark brown to black with distinct bright red or crimson spots on the hindwings.
  • Body is bright crimson red, making it easily distinguishable even in flight.
  • Wingspan: 9–12 cm.
  • Flight is slow and leisurely, often gliding.
  • Unlike many swallowtails, the Crimson Rose rarely opens its wings fully while feeding, preferring to flutter.
  • Belongs to the tribe Troidini, which includes other red-bodied swallowtails that feed on toxic plants.

Life Cycle & Behavior
The Crimson Rose undergoes complete metamorphosis. Females lay eggs singly on the leaves of Aristolochia species. The caterpillars are dark purple with orange tubercles, and they sequester aristolochic acid from the host plant, making both the caterpillar and adult toxic to predators. Adults are active from pre-monsoon through post-monsoon seasons. Males are often seen visiting flowers, while females tend to stay near host plants. The pupa is distinctive, with a curved shape resembling a dead leaf.

Host Plants & Habitat

  • Caterpillar Host Plants: Indian birthwort (Aristolochia indica) and other Aristolochia species.
  • Adult Nectar Sources: Lantana, Clerodendrum, Duranta, and various garden flowers.
  • Habitat: Open scrubland, forest edges, gardens, and plantations across South Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bangladesh.

Conservation Status
Not Evaluated (IUCN). However, the species is protected under Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act, making its collection and trade illegal.

Identification Tips

Dark wings with bright crimson spots on hindwings. Bright red body. Slow, fluttering flight.

Similar Species

*No similar species recorded yet.*

Related Species

* Other species in this family (to be linked manually).