List of butterflies of India (Limenitidinae)
This page lists the butterfly species belonging to the subfamily Limenitidinae found in India. Limenitidinae is a subfamily of the Nymphalidae family, commonly known as admirals and relatives. These butterflies are generally medium to large in size and are known for their gliding flight patterns and often striking wing patterns. The list is organized taxonomically and may reflect ongoing revisions in butterfly classification.
The Limenitidinae subfamily is characterized by the following:
- Larval Food Plants: Many species are known to feed on a variety of plant families, including those of dicotyledonous trees and shrubs. Specific host plant preferences can vary significantly between species.
- Distribution: This subfamily has a broad global distribution, with a significant presence in the Oriental region, including India.
- Wing Morphology: The wing shape and coloration are diverse, with many species exhibiting vibrant colors and complex patterns that serve as camouflage or warning signals to predators. Some species exhibit mimicry, resembling other unpalatable butterfly species for protection.
Genera and Species (arranged alphabetically by genus):
- Athyma: This genus contains several notable species found in India. Examples include:
- Athyma asura (Asura Sergeant)
- Athyma cama (Orange Staff Sergeant)
- Athyma jina (Bhutan Sergeant)
- Athyma nefte (Colour Sergeant)
- Athyma perius (Common Sergeant)
- Athyma ranga (Blackvein Sergeant)
- Athyma zeroca (Small Staff Sergeant)
- Limenitis:
- Limenitis danava (Commander)
- Neptis: This is a large and diverse genus with many species occurring in India. Examples include:
- Neptis hordonia (Common Sailor)
- Neptis jumbah (Chestnut-streaked Sailor)
- Neptis leucoporos (Grey Sailor)
- Neptis manasa (Pale Hockeystick Sailor)
- Neptis nata (Clear Sailor)
- Neptis radha (Great Hockeystick Sailor)
- Neptis sappho (Common Hockeystick Sailor)
- Neptis soma (Sullied Sailor)
- Pantoporia:
- Pantoporia hordonia (Common Lascar)
- Pantoporia larymna (Dispar Lascar)
- Pantoporia neobule (Common Lascar)
- Parasarpa
- Parasarpa albidior (Tawny Emperor)
- Parasarpa dudu (White Commodore)
- Sumalia
- Sumalia daraxa (Green Commodore)
Note: This list is not exhaustive, and new species may be discovered or existing classifications may be revised based on ongoing research. For the most up-to-date information, consult recent taxonomic publications and online databases dedicated to butterfly identification and classification. It is also essential to consult regional experts for accurate identification and distribution records within India. Furthermore, subspecies distinctions are not thoroughly listed here; referencing specific regional butterfly field guides is recommended for in-depth subspecies identification.