Papilio dardanus PUPAE

Papilio dardanus, commonly known as the Mocker Swallowtail, is a remarkable butterfly species found in Sub-Saharan Africa. It is celebrated for its striking appearance and intriguing mimicry.nThis butterfly exhibits striking sexual dimorphism; females display a wide range of forms imitating toxic butterflies like the African Monarch (Danaus chrysippus). This mimicry helps protect them from predators. Their caterpillars feed on various plants, including those from the citrus family: Choisya and Skimmia are both excellent. These butterflies contribute to pollination and serve as a compelling example of Batesian mimicry in the insect world, where harmless species imitate toxic ones for protection. They are a fascinating and important component of African ecosystems.