IUCN RED LIST
Established in 1964, The IUCN Red List is a critical indicator of the health of the world’s biodiversity. Species are classified by the IUCN Red List into nine groups, through criteria such as rate of decline, population size and area of geographic distribution as:
- Extinct (EX) – This species is no longer extant
- Extinct in the wild (EW) – Survives only in captivity, or through cultivation often outside native range
- Critically endangered (CR) – In an extremely critical state
- Endangered (EN) – Very high risk of extinction in the wild
- Vulnerable (VU) – At high risk of unnatural (human-caused) extinction
- Near Threatened (NT) – Close to being endangered in the near future
- Least Concern (LC) – Widespread and abundant in the wild
- Data Deficient (DD) – Inadequate information to assess extinction risk
- Not Evaluated (NE) – Has not yet been assessed
The butterfly has velvety black wings with striking crimson-red body markings and bright red spots on the hindwings. The hindwings also possess elegant tail-like extensions. The underside resembles the upper side but appears slightly paler.
The Common Rose is a graceful and slow-flying butterfly known for its unhurried gliding flight. It is active during sunny daytime hours and is frequently seen visiting flowers for nectar. Due to its toxic nature, it flies confidently without much fear of predators.
The Common Rose is considered partially migratory in some regions. Seasonal local migrations may occur in response to rainfall patterns and availability of host plants.
Breeding occurs throughout the year, especially during monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. Females lay eggs singly on host plants belonging to the Aristolochiaceae family. Caterpillars feed on toxic leaves and later pupate on stems or nearby vegetation. Courtship involves slow fluttering flights and chemical signalling between males and females.
Bright red coloration warns predators about its toxicity. Toxic chemicals obtained from host plants make both caterpillars and adults unpalatable. Slow and confident flight conserves energy and reflects reduced predator threat. Tail-like hindwing projections may help divert predator attacks.
Adult Common Roses mainly feed on nectar from flowering plants such as lantana, jasmine, ixora, and hibiscus. Caterpillars feed on Aristolochia vines, absorbing toxic chemicals that provide protection against predators.
The Common Rose is commonly found in gardens, forest edges, scrublands, agricultural areas, parks, and urban green spaces. It prefers warm tropical habitats with flowering plants and host vines.
