ABSTRACT:
We studied the developmental morphology and seasonal variation in the developmental cycle of Papilio demoleus, a major citrus pest, under in situ conditions in Raipur, central India. Larval development revealed instar-specific differences in eating behaviour and morphology, with significant shifts occurring over the course of five larval instars.
We found that the larvae morphology followed a consistent pattern, with early instars mimicking bird droppings and later instars having green coloration with characteristic saddle-like markings, suggesting a shift from defensive mimicry to camouflage based on plants. The length of the body (2–35 mm) gradually increased over the instars. The duration of development was distinctly seasonal with faster growth and shorter instar duration in summer, intermediate in monsoon and prolonged in winter. The total duration of life cycle was ranged about 23-41 days. This shows the influence of ambient temperature on larval development.
The study, although it had limited sample size, reveals seasonal plasticity and microclimatic variation in the developmental dynamics of Papilio demoleus under natural conditions. These results provide a baseline data from central India and add to the knowledge regarding the ecological adaptability of this particular species which may have implications in pest management and prediction of population responses in changing climatic conditions.
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