Samoan Swallowtail vs Black Arches
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Samoan Swallowtail | Black Arches |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Papilio godeffroyi | Lymantria monacha |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Papilionidae | Erebidae |
| Size | 70-90 mm wingspan | 40-55 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Forests | Forests |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Omnivores |
| Regions | Oceania (Samoa) | Europe, temperate Asia, Japan |
| Conservation | Endangered | Least Concern |
Samoan Swallowtail
A rare and beautiful swallowtail butterfly endemic to Samoa. It has dark wings with pale markings and is found in native forest. It is considered one of the rarest butterflies in the Pacific Islands.
Did You Know?
This is one of the most isolated swallowtail butterflies in the world, found only on the small islands of Samoa far from any other Papilio population.
Black Arches
A striking moth with white wings boldly marked with black zigzag lines and a pink-flushed abdomen. It can occasionally erupt in huge outbreaks that defoliate conifer forests.
Did You Know?
During outbreaks in central Europe, caterpillar frass falling from trees sounds like rainfall.