13) Melanitis phedima

 Melanitis phedima

Habit and habitat: They are found mainly in South and Southeast Asia.

Melanitis phedima

Comments on Melanitis phedima 

• The common name is known as Dark evening brown.
• They are olive-brown or blackish strips on their wings.
• The body is divided into the head, thorax, and abdomen.
• The forewing is very slightly angled below the apex.
• Its larvae feed on the young leaves of the host plant Panium maximum and other plants from the Poaceae family such as rise and maize.
• They lay their eggs in small groups of 2-3 or 6 legs under the leaves of the host plant.
• Eggs are round about 1mm in diameter.
• Adult body length is about 45-51 mm.
• There is a pair of rounded horns.
• Falcate-shaped wings.

Melanitis phedima, commonly known as the common evening brown butterfly, is a fascinating species found in various parts of Asia. Sporting wings of a rich chocolate brown hue, this butterfly often graces grasslands, forest edges, and even urban gardens with its presence. Its distinctive markings, including intricate eye-like patterns on its wings, serve as camouflage and deterrents against predators. With a wingspan ranging from 45 to 60 millimeters, the common evening brown exhibits graceful flight patterns, flitting from flower to flower in search of nectar. Despite its unassuming name, this butterfly adds a touch of elegance to its surroundings and contributes to the vibrant tapestry of biodiversity in its habitat.

Melanitis phedima

Melanitis phedima, commonly known as the common evening brown butterfly, possesses several distinctive characteristics:

1. Physical Appearance: 

The common evening brown butterfly typically has a wingspan ranging from 50 to 55 millimeters. Its wings are predominantly brown with distinct markings and patterns, including eye spots, stripes, and bands.

2. Habitat: 

This species is found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, open woodlands, scrublands, and urban areas. It is often seen flying low to the ground.

3. Behavior: 

Common evening brown butterflies are known for their erratic flight patterns, especially during the late afternoon and early evening hours, hence their common name. They tend to rest with their wings closed, blending into their surroundings.

4. Diet: 

As caterpillars, they feed on various grass species, particularly those found in open areas. As adults, they primarily feed on nectar from flowers, favoring a wide range of flowering plants.

5. Life Cycle: 

Like most butterflies, M. phedima undergoes a complete metamorphosis, transitioning through egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult stages.

6. Distribution: 

The common evening brown butterfly is native to parts of Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, China, Southeast Asia, and the Indonesian archipelago. It can also be found in other tropical and subtropical regions.

7. Mimicry: 

This species exhibits mimicry, resembling dead leaves when at rest, which serves as a defense mechanism against predators.

8. Seasonality: 

While the common evening brown butterfly can be seen throughout the year in some regions, its activity may vary depending on local climate and environmental conditions.

9. Conservation Status: 

The conservation status of Melanitis phedima is not of immediate concern, as it is widespread and not considered threatened. However, like many butterfly species, its populations may be impacted by habitat loss and other environmental factors.

Understanding these characteristics provides insight into the biology, ecology, and natural history of the common evening brown butterfly, Melanitis phedima.