The emerald swallowtail

Family: Knights' butterflies (Papilionidae)

Wingspan: 8- 10 cm

Host plant: Citrus (Rutaceae)

Papilio palinurus occurs naturally in Southeast Asia, especially in tropical rainforests in areas such as Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia. It is particularly known for its shimmering, metallic green color. The green color comes not from pigments but from light refraction in the butterfly's scales, creating an optical effect. The underside of the wings is darker brown with orange and blue eye spots, which act as a defense against predators. This butterfly is diurnal and moves quickly through the forest.

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