Parnassius

butterfly genus

Also known as: apollo butterfly

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Last updated

July 1, 2026

Quick Summary

The Parnassius genus, also known as parnassian or apollo butterflies, belongs to the subfamily Parnassiinae within the family Papilionidae. These are medium-sized butterflies typically found in mountainous alpine regions across Asia, Europe, and North America.1

Parnassians are characterized by their almost translucent white, yellow, or gray wings, often featuring dark markings and a distinctive red or orange spot on the hindwing. Unlike most butterflies, they pupate within cocoon-like webs. Their striking coloration makes them highly prized by butterfly collectors. The genus Parnassius is sometimes classified as its own family, Parnassiidae.12

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parnassian butterfly
The parnassian (Parnassius), also known as apollo, found in mountainous alpine regions in Asia, Europe, and North America, is a medium-sized butterfly, generally with translucent white, yellow, or gray wings with dark markings and usually a red or orange spot on the hindwing.
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The parnassian (Parnassius), also known as apollo, found in mountainous alpine regions in Asia, Europe, and North America, is a medium-sized butterfly, generally with translucent white, yellow, or gray wings with dark markings and usually a red or orange spot on the hindwing.
Read More