Vindula dejone

Malay Cruiser

Basic Information

General information

Family: “Nymphalidae”
Sub Family: “Nymphalinae”
Estimated Lifespan 29 Days

Garden Specific Information

Estimated Number In Flight: 2
Total Number of Pupae Received: 8801
First Flown On: 10/14/02
Last Flown On: 04/12/24

Species Range:

  • “Asia”

Host plants:

  • The larvae feed on plants in the genus Adenia
  • which is known to have a very poisonous sap.

Food Source

The adults will feed from a variety of flowering plants but they seem to be extremely attracted to plants in the genus Lantana. Males are also known to receive other nutrients through puddling.

Etymology Of Name

The origin for the genus Vindula and the specie dejone is currently unknown.

Habitat

The Cruiser is commonly found in both the forest and the open countryside.

Life history

To find a mate, males patrol for receptive females. After mating a female will lay her eggs on the leaves of the host plant. The caterpillars feed on the host plant until they are ready to form their chrysalis.

Flights

There are multiple generations each year which make it possible to find adults all year long, with the largest populations being observed from February to May.

Fun Facts

Originally, the Cruiser was placed in the genus Cethosia, which contains the Lacewing butterflies. After further study it was determined that this placement was incorrect, and the genus Vindula was created which currently contains four different species.