As part of our project to establish a butterfly house at QSBG we recently visited a local butterfly farm that mass produces pupae for export to butterfly houses internationally.
During the visit we were able to examine the complete production process, including management of host plants, mating, egg-laying, larval feeding and pupation. The end result being the pupae that in most cases are exported via air freight to international butterfly houses, though some complete their life cycle here in Thailand as the breeding stock for the next generation.
The farm raises only local species and does so very effectively making our visit to the farm very interesting and educational.
Thanks to Khun Jakrapop, the farm manager, who was kind enough to allow us to tour his farm.
Papilio memnon female laying eggs on a host plant
QSBG Entomology team with Jakrapop (far right)
Collected pupae sorted ready for packing and export (Papilio demoleus)
Danaus chrysippus