Common Mormon vs African Net-winged Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Common Mormon | African Net-winged Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Papilio polytes | Lycus trabeatus |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Papilionidae | Lycidae |
| Size | 90-100 mm wingspan | 15-30 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Woodlands |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | South Asia, Southeast Asia | East Africa, Southern Africa |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Common Mormon
Males are plain black with a cream band; females occur in multiple forms mimicking different toxic species. A textbook example of female-limited polymorphism.
Did You Know?
A single gene called doublesex controls the switch between its mimetic female forms.
African Net-winged Beetle
A brightly orange-red beetle with distinctive net-like wing venation and broad expanded elytra. It is toxic and serves as a model for many mimicry complexes.
Did You Know?
Several unrelated beetle and moth species mimic its bright warning coloration to gain protection from predators.