2nd observation
Common name: chocolate pansy
Scientific name: Junonia iphita
IUCN status: Not yet evaluated
Introduction: The chocolate pansy is a species of butterfly found in south and southeast asia. It
belongs to the nymphalidae family and is known for its distinctive chocolate-brown wings, which
feature wavy patterns and eye-like markings. The upper side of the wings is brown with dark wavy
lines. The underside varies between light and dark brown. Males are more vividly marked than
females. Founds in open woodlands, gardens, and near water bodies. Prefers sunlit areas and is
often seen basking on the ground.
Description: The chocolate pansy, also known as the chocolate soldier, is a medium-sized
butterfly. It is named for its rich brown coloration, which resembles the shade of chocolate.
Physical appearance:
Wingspan: Approximately 50-70 mm.
Upper side: Dark brown with intricate wavy lines and faint eyespots.
Under side: Lighter brown with variable patterns, providing camouflage
against dried leaves.
Body: Slender with brownish coloration to match the wings.
Behavior& flight:
Exhibits strong territorial behavior, often chasing away other butterflies.
Prefers to fly close to ground with a quick and jerky movement, interspersed with glides.
Often seen basking in sun with wings spread flat.
Habitat& Distribution:
Found in south and southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Malaysia and
Indonesia.
Common in gardens, open forests, parks, and near water bodies.
Diet & Feeding Habits:
Feeds on nectar, tree sap, and rotting fruits.
Caterpillars feed on plants like Ruellia, Barleria, Asystasia.
Distribution: The chocolate pansy is widely distributed across south and southeast Asia,
inhabiting various regions with warm and tropical climates.
Geographical range:
South Asia:
o India – Found throughout the country, from the western ghats to the
Himalayan foothills.
o Sri Lanka- common in forests, gardens, and open areas.
o Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan- Present in suitable habitats with
warm temperatures.
Southeast Asia:
o Myanmar, Thailand, and Loas- Found in woodlands, open fields,
and near water bodies.
o Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines- Occurs in
tropical rainforests, gardens, and urban green spaces.
o Vietnam and Cambodia- Thrives in both natural and cultivated
environments.
Habitat: The chocolate pansy thrives in a variety of warm and tropical environments,
preferring open and semi-shaded areas where it can easily bask in sun light.
Preferred habitats:
1. Open woodlands & Forest Edges- Founds in deciduous forests,
secondary forests, and forest clearings.
2. Garden & parks- Frequently seen in urban green spaces, especially
where host plants are present.
3. Grasslands & Scrublands- Prefers sunlit areas with scattered
vegetation.
4. Near water bodies- Often found near, streams, ponds, and damp
regions where nectar sources are abundant.
5. Roadsides & Farmlands- Adapts well to disturbed habitats, often
seen resting on bare ground or pathways.
The butterfly is commonly found basking with its wings spread open and
flies close to the ground. It is highly territorial and actively patrols its
habitat.
Food habits: The chocolate pansy has different feeding habits at various stages of its life cycle.
1. Caterpillar stage [Larva]:
Feeds on the leaves of host plants, mainly from the Acanthaceae family.
Common host plants include:
o Ruellia spp.
o Barleria spp.
o Asystasia spp.
The caterpillar relies on these plants for growth before pupation.
2. Adult butterfly:
Feeds on nectar from flowers but prefers other food sources as well.
Common food sources:
o Rotting fruits- Fermented fruit juices provide essential nutrients.
o Tree sap- Often seen feeding on sap from damaged or oozing trees.
o Damp soil&mud puddles- Engages in mud-puddling to absorb minerals and salts.
Unlike some butterflies, the chocolate pansy is not highly dependent on nectar and
frequently feeds on organic matter found on the ground.
Predation: The chocolate pansy, like other butterflies, faces threats from various predators at
different stages of its life cycle
Natural predators:
Birds- Many insectivorous birds prey on both caterpillars and adult butterflies.
Reptiles- Lizards and small geckos hunt butterflies when they are resting or basking.
Spiders- Orb-weaver and jumping spiders ambush the butterfly or trap it in webs.
Insects- praying mantises and assassin bugs prey on adults. wasps and ants attack
caterpillars and pupae.
Anti-predation adaptations:
Camouflage: The brown, leaf-like underwing patterns help the butterfly blend with dried
leaves.
Erratic Flight: Sudden movements and quick gliding make it harder for predators to catch.
Territorial Behavior: Males aggressively chase away other insects from their territory,
reducing predation risks.
Toxicity[mild]: While not highly toxic, feeding on certain plants may give the caterpillar and
adult butterfly a slight unpalatable taste to predators.
Despite these defenses, the chocolate pansy remains vulnerable, especially in its larval
and pupal stages.
