Post by hypanartia on Jun 19, 2018 19:07:01 GMT -8
L. arthemis astyanax and a few other species (P. glaucus/females, P. troilus) are considered to be Batesian mimics of Battus philenor, which is inedible. The problem is that in this area Battus philenor is much more rare than the mimics, which in some areas are very abundant. The result is a decreased protection against predators, clearly shown in the picture. This is a spot where L. arthemis astyanax and other Nymphalidae congregate to puddle, and birds are well aware. They were many other wings around. It is curious however that they only seems to be eating L. arthemis.