Wing scale patterns of Hypolimnas bolina (Linnaeus, 1758) (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae)

Abstract

Hypolimnas bolina (L), exhibit a stunningly bright and lustrous colour wing patches. The present study is focused on the variety of pigmented scales that cover the wings of H. bolina. A total of 128 different types of scales (white, brown, blue as well as black scales) were investigated, which includes 63 morphologically different types of scales on the dorsal part and 65 scales from ventral side. For the analysis the scales are taken from the black and violet portion of dorsal part and brown and white colored patches in ventral region. Micrometry of scales on the dorsal side showed a length range of about 86.6 to 102.4? and width range of 63 to 78.8?. Dimension analysis of ventral region range from 86.6 to 106.3? in length and width of 66.8 to 86.6?. The shape and distribution of scale depends on their exact location on the wing which are responsible for boggling pattern and brilliant visual appearance.