About Red Lacewing
A large butterfly with brilliant red-orange wings boldly bordered in black and white. The underside features an elaborate network of red, white, and black in a striking lacework pattern.
Did You Know?
The caterpillars are gregarious and covered in branching spines that deliver a mild sting, providing collective defense against predators.
How to Identify Red Lacewing
Red Lacewing (Cethosia biblis) belongs to the order Lepidoptera, family Nymphalidae. Adults typically measure 80-95 mm wingspan.
Red Lacewing Habitat
Red Lacewing is found in underground habitats, particularly across Southeast Asia (Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam). This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Red Lacewing Diet and Feeding
Red Lacewing feeds primarily on nectar from flowers. In doing so, it acts as an important pollinator, transferring pollen between plants and contributing to plant reproduction and biodiversity.
Where Is Red Lacewing Found?
Red Lacewing can be found in Southeast Asia (Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam), where it inhabits underground environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Red Lacewing can be found
Is Red Lacewing Dangerous?
Red Lacewing is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Red Lacewing Role in Nature
Red Lacewing plays an important role as a pollinator. By visiting flowers to feed on nectar or pollen, it transfers pollen between plants, aiding in reproduction and helping to maintain plant diversity. Pollinators are essential for the production of many fruits, vegetables, and wildflowers.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Red Lacewing
What does Red Lacewing look like?
The Red Lacewing typically measures 80-95 mm wingspan.
Where is Red Lacewing found?
The Red Lacewing is found in Southeast Asia (Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam) and typically inhabits underground environments.
What does Red Lacewing eat?
The Red Lacewing feeds primarily on nectar from flowers.
Is Red Lacewing dangerous to humans?
The Red Lacewing is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Red Lacewing?
The caterpillars are gregarious and covered in branching spines that deliver a mild sting, providing collective defense against predators.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Red Lacewing (Cethosia biblis). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/red-lacewing
MLA:
"Red Lacewing." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/red-lacewing.