There are approximately 20,000 butterfly species worldwide, with Borneo being home to around 960, 81 of which are exclusive to the island. In comparison, Peninsular Malaysia is home to just over a thousand butterfly species, with only 21 being endemic. Among the notable butterflies found in Borneo is Malaysia's national butterfly, the Rajah Brooke's Birdwing (Trogonoptera brookiana), discovered by Sir Alfred Russel Wallace and named after James Brooke, the Rajah of Sarawak from 1841 to 1868. The Kinabalu Birdwing (Troides andromache) is also of significance as Sabah's state butterfly, a distinction declared by the State Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Environment in October 2023. This declaration illustrates the state government's dedication to conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable nature tourism. Borneo is a haven of unparalleled biodiversity, showcasing a vast array of flora and fauna, including numerous exclusive butterfly species. This pictorial guide features 158 captivating and inspiring butterfly species and three subspecies, aiming to raise awareness and highlight the remarkable diversity of tropical butterflies, from large and exotic specimens to those commonly found in Borneo.
Foreword
Preface
Introduction
What is a butterfly?
Borneo-a haven for butterflies
Habitats for butterflies in Borneo
The adult butterfly morphology ...
Classification and names of butterflies
Life cycle of butterflies
Behaviour of butterflies
Defence in butterflies
Importance of butterflies in tropical ecosystem
Conservation of Bornean butterflies
Butterfly watching
The Bornean butterfly parade
Papilionidae
Pieridae
Nymphalidae
Riodinidae
Lycaenidae
Hesperidae
List of Bornean endemic species
Acknowledgements.
Photo credits
References
Index to common names of butterflies
Index to scientific names of butterflies
Notes about the authors