Life History of the Indian Palm Bob (Suastus Gremius Fabricius,1798) (Lepidoptera: Rhopalocera: Satyridae) From Southern Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

The life history of the Indian Palm Bob (Suastus gremius Fabricius,1798) in south India was studied on the basis of searches. The morphology of adults, eggs, larvae, and pupae were observed. Besides, the population index of Suastus gremius on Phoenix acaulis leaves was discussed. Life cycle completes in 29-31 days. The present study was carried out at Sri Lankamalleswara reserve forest (79o 07’–78o 80’ E) and Kadapa (14o 47' N and 78o 82' E) during the calendar year 2016 -17 (January – December). Sri Lankamalleswara reserve forest has an average elevation of 138 meters (452 ft). The basic protocol for captive rearing was to collect eggs from wild-mated females, rear larvae to adult butterflies in captivity, and release adult butterflies and pupae back into wild populations. This butterfly normally requires a tropical to subtropical environment but sometimes ranges into sheltered, hot temperate areas.