Graphium (butterfly)
Graphium is a genus of mostly tropical swallowtail butterflies commonly known as swordtails, kite swallowtails, or ladies. Native to Eurasia, Africa, and Oceania, the genus is represented by over 100 species. Their colouration is as variable as the habitats they frequent; from rainforest to savannah. Some possess tails which may be long and swordlike, while others lack any hindwing extensions. Graphium species are often sighted at mud puddles.
The more colourful species are popular with collectors and are commonly seen mounted in frames for sale. Well-known species include the tailed jay, common bluebottle, and the purple-spotted swallowtail. One species, G. idaeoides, is notable for being a perfect mimic of the danainid Idea leuconoe.
Larvae feed variously on Annonaceae, Magnoliaceae, Lauraceae, Rutaceae, Dioscoreaceae, Bombacaceae, Piperaceae, Anacardiaceae, Apocynaceae, Malpighiaceae, Hernandiaceae, Guttiferae, Monimiaceae, Pandanaceae, Winteraceae, and Euphorbiaceae.Species
Listed alphabetically:
subgenus: Idaides
subgenus: Arisbe Hübner,
subgenus: Pathysa
subgenus: Paranticopsis Wood-Mason & de Nicéville, 1887
subgenus: Pazala Moore, 1888
