Notes on the life cycle of Red Pierrot (Talicada nyseus) from the semi-arid region of India (Lycaenidae)

Abstract

Talicada nyseus, commonly known as Red Pierrot, is a Lycaenidae butterfly distributed throughout India, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar. This study provides the first published records and details about the life cycle of T. nyseus in the semi-arid region of India. The life cycle was studied in both in situ and ex situ settings on the hostplant Kalanchoe species (Crassulaceae). The timespan of the egg, larval, and pupal stages of T. nyseus were documented at 7.9±0.96, 10.3±2.8, and 8.3±1.2 days, respectively. Morphometrics and the ecological life table were also documented.