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| Cethosia hypsea palawana |
The Malay lacewing or Malayan Lacewing (Cethosia hypsea) is a vibrant member of the Nymphalidae family, widely distributed across the lush landscapes of Southeast Asia. Its range stretches from Myanmar through the Malay Peninsula and extends to the various island groups, including Indonesia and the Philippines. These populations are often geographically isolated across the Malay Archipelago and exhibit significant subspecific variation, with different regions producing subtle shifts in color intensity and wing markings. In Palawan, the Malay lacewing is represented by the subspecies Cethosia hypsea palawana. This particular variation is endemic to Palawan, inhabiting the main island of Palawan and some of its surrounding smaller islands.
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| Cethosia hypsea palawana |
The Cethosia hypsea palawana is a visual standout even among the flashy butterflies of Palawan. It is easily recognized by its scalloped wings, which are a vibrant bright orange to reddish-orange and black on the top and adorned with a white band that runs vertically. While the upperside is striking, the underside is remarkably intricate. The underside displays a tapestry of orange, white, and black and features lacelike black and white intricate filigree patterns around the edge of its wings.
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| Cethosia hypsea palawana |
In terms of habitat and behavior, the Cethosia hypsea palawana has a widespread distribution in Palawan. It thrives in lowland tropical forest and can be seen flying on the forest edges and clearings as well as riverine and riparian zones. Adults are also often observed in open or semi-open habitats with abundant nectar sources, like abandoned or overgrown farms with flowering plants and wide trails in the second growth with Lantana and Chromolaena shrubs growing on the sides. They are active flyers, often seen fluttering around nectar sources or resting on low vegetation in the morning up to mid-afternoon.
