Junonia iphita

Chocolate Pansy

Basic Information

General information

Family: “Nymphalidae”
Sub Family: “Nymphalinae”
Estimated Lifespan 20 Days

Garden Specific Information

Estimated Number In Flight: 0
Total Number of Pupae Received: 172
First Flown On: 06/17/16
Last Flown On: 09/13/24

Species Range:

  • “Asia”

Host plants:

  • Acanthaceae
  • Strobilanthes callosus
  • Justica microantha
  • Asteracantha longifolia
  • Lepidagathis formosensis
  • Goldfussia formosanus

Food Source

Adults can be found nectaring from a variety of flowers with Lantana being one of their favorites.

Etymology Of Name

The origin the genus Junonia and the specie iphita is currently unknown.

Habitat

The Chocolate Pansy is primarily found along forest edges but they often venture out into the open country side.

Life history

Males patrol the open country side looking for receptive females. After mating the female searches for host plant to lay her eggs on. The caterpillars feed on the host plant until they form their pupae.

Flights

There are multiple generations each year which makes it possible to find adults year round.

Fun Facts

The Chocolate Pansy exhibits seasonal variation, where they have wet and dry season forms which look slightly different from each other.