endemic to Hispaniola (Dominican Rep./Haiti). It
remains the "least encountered" species of all the
recorded species there.
Therefore, it has achieved rarity status in private
collections and is a real treat to see when you do
finally encounter one.
Males are of coarse the specimens most often seen
in private hands. Females are a true "anomaly" to
encounter and clean examples of either sex are
indeed rare sights.
So, for those with a penchant for all things
swallowtail or those (like me) with a general
appreciation I offer up a remarkable (pair) of
this hitherto largely overlooked species.
Male (top)
Female (bottom)
Of Note: A portion of my friends collection is in
insect drawers but, a portion of it is in riker mounts.
The disparity is because when he began collecting
lepidoptera in the early 1950's riker mounts were
the "standard" that many people chose to house their
winged treasures.
Schmitt boxes were available too but, their small
capacity size and higher pricing kept many average
earning folks from affording them. Also, ones treasures
could not be so easily seen as schmitt boxes were tight
fitting all wooden units.
Rikers offered a low cost alternative with a "measure
of safety" AND full un-adulterated viewing. They could
be easily stacked in a dark (fumigated) cabinet for rock
solid safety from light and insect pests.
Only later in life when my friend "earned" more to afford
the better things did he begin investing in drawer units
for future housings.
