Hodges#4166

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Papilio machaon: //pəˈpɪlioʊ məˈkeɪɒn//

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Summary

Papilio machaon, also known as the common yellow swallowtail or Old World swallowtail, is a widely-distributed butterfly species in the family Papilionidae, noted for its distinctive wing coloration and markings. It is distributed across the Palearctic region and has various recognized subspecies.

Physical Characteristics

The imago typically has yellow wings with black vein markings, and a wingspan of 65–86 millimetres (2.6–3.4 in). The hindwings of both sexes have a pair of protruding tails, with one red and six blue eye spots just below each tail. The caterpillar stage reaches a length of 45 millimetres (1.8 in) and resembles a bird dropping when young, providing camouflage.

Identification Tips

Can be distinguished from Papilio hospiton by the longer 'tails' on the hindwings and from Papilio saharae by counting the segments on the antennae.

Habitat

Alpine meadows, hillsides, and gardens; widespread in various habitats across the Palearctic region.

Distribution

Present throughout the entire Palearctic region, ranging from Russia to China and Japan, and across into Alaska, Canada, and the United States. Found in Southern Asia including Pakistan, northern India, Nepal, Bhutan, and northern Myanmar.

Diet

Primarily feeds on plants in the family Umbelliferae, with caterpillars adopting Milk parsley as the main food plant in the UK. Also utilizes plants from family Apiaceae and occasionally from the family Rutaceae.

Life Cycle

Usually two to three broods per year; can exhibit univoltinism in northern regions. Partially bivoltine in the UK, where some pupate and emerge within the same year while others overwinter as pupae.

Reproduction

Butterflies can be bred in captivity; eggs are laid singly on suitable host plants. Caterpillars are fed on food plants, with particular preference for tender leaves.

Predators

Natural predators include insects and birds; the caterpillar's defense mechanism includes the osmeterium which releases a foul smell when disturbed to deter predators.

Conservation Status

Not threatened as a species; listed as vulnerable in South Korea, Austria, and former Soviet Union. Protected by law in several countries, including the United Kingdom and India.

Ecosystem Role

Pollinator and part of the food chain; larvae contribute to herbivory in their ecosystems.

Cultural Significance

Designated as the National Butterfly of Estonia after public voting; recognized for its beauty and ecological role.

Evolution

Named after Machaon, a figure in Greek mythology; part of an extensive phylogenetic lineage with historical classifications debated amongst authors.

Misconceptions

Often confused with other swallowtail species due to the common name 'swallowtail' applied broadly.

Tags

• butterfly
• Papilio machaon
• common yellow swallowtail
• Papilionidae
• Lepidoptera