Discover Nature at JCU Animals Butterflies and Moths by scientific name Papilio fuscus

Papilio fuscus

Papilio fuscus

(Fuscus Swallowtail, Northern Citrus)

FAMILY

Papilionidae

Species

Papilio fuscus

Common name(s)

Fuscus Swallowtail, Northern Citrus

Main colour(s)

Brownish-black

Distinctive features

Wingspan 85/91 mm; tail prominent

Campus

Townsville

Description

Larval food plants are species of Rutaceae, both native and introduced. Mature larvae variable in colour, usually orange-brown with some irregular markings; head green. Adults brown to black with a cream band and blue and orange to red spots towards base of hind wing; lower surface dark brown; tail prominent.