Cethosia biblis

The red lacewing, scientifically known as *Cethosia biblis*, is an intriguing butterfly that belongs to the Nymphalidae family. This species encompasses several subspecies found across various regions, including India, China, the Philippines, Indonesia, and other Southeast Asian countries. In India alone, subspecies include *Cethosia biblis tisamena*, *Cethosia biblis andamanica*, and *Cethosia biblis nicobarica*.

These butterflies boast a wide distribution, extending from the Indian subcontinent to Southeast and East Asia, and even reaching as far as the Philippines and Indonesia. They are medium-sized, with a wingspan ranging from 8 to 9 centimeters. The males are particularly striking with their bright orange-red wings, outlined in black and dotted with white spots. Conversely, the females possess more subdued greyish-brown wings adorned with black spots and white bands.

The caterpillars of the red lacewing are equally distinctive. They feature a striking pattern of reddish, black, and white stripes and are covered with long black spines that contain toxins. These caterpillars primarily feed on toxic climbing plants, especially those from the *Passiflora* species.

The vivid colors and patterns of the red lacewing serve a crucial purpose. They act as a warning to predators about the butterfly's unpalatability, a trait inherited from the toxic plants the caterpillars consume. This form of visual deterrence, known as aposematism, helps the species survive in its natural habitat by making potential predators think twice before taking a bite.