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Madagascan Pipevine swallowtail butterfly
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Madagascan Pipevine swallowtail butterfly
The Madagascan Pipevine Swallowtail Pharmacophagus antenor (Drury 1773). Strong late 18th Century illustration with contemporary colouring following its discovery. As a member of the Troidini tribe this species is more akin to the South East Asian fauna than the African - despite Madagascars proximity to Africa. This general Malagasy trend is a result of the strange biogeography of Madagascar that includes Gondwanan survivals, Laurasian stepping stones, and long distance dispersal via the prevailing easterly winds and Indian Ocean currents. One specimen (perhaps this one) entered the vast collection of William Hunter (brother of Jon Hunter) at the end of the 18th century (now the Hunterian collection Glasgow). An article by EG Hancock 2008 outlines the butterflies discovery in relation to William Hunters collection
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6318601
© PAUL D STEWART/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
18th Century Biogeography Butter Fly Collection Color Colour Entomologist Exotic Lepidoptera Madagascar Swallowtail Butterfly Antenor Aurelian Drury Exotica Papilio William Hunter
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the exquisite beauty of the Madagascan Pipevine swallowtail butterfly, also known as Pharmacophagus antenor. Dating back to the late 18th century, this illustration has been meticulously colored to reflect its vibrant appearance following its discovery. Despite Madagascar's geographical proximity to Africa, this species is more closely related to the South East Asian fauna due to the peculiar biogeography of the island. Madagascar's unique natural history is a result of various factors such as Gondwanan survivals, Laurasian stepping stones, and long-distance dispersal facilitated by prevailing easterly winds and Indian Ocean currents. It is fascinating how one specimen, quite possibly this very butterfly depicted in the print, found its way into William Hunter's extensive collection at the end of the 18th century. This collection now resides in Glasgow as part of what is known today as The Hunterian. The discovery of this magnificent creature and its inclusion in William Hunter's renowned collection have been extensively discussed by EG Hancock in a notable article from 2008. As an entomologist and aurelian enthusiast myself, I find it truly remarkable how artistry intertwines with scientific exploration through illustrations like these. This print serves not only as a visual delight but also as a testament to our ongoing fascination with exotic creatures and their intricate ecosystems. (Word count: 200)
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