Zerynthia cassandra (Geyer, [1828])

Host plants:
The larvae feed on Aristolochia-species, often A.rotunda.

Habitat:
Zerynthia cassandra inhabits similar places as Z. polyxena, so often along woodland margins, in screes near woodlands, but also in wetlands or in dry scrub.

Life cycle:
The ecology is like in Z. polyxena with adults in spring (March to May, according to altitude) and hibernating pupae. Eggsare usually found on lower sides of Aristolochia leaves.

Remarks:
Zerynthia cassandra occurs locally but widespread in Italy south of the Po valley where it replaces Z. polyxena. It is also known from Sicily. Contact zones are possible - regarding the current state of the discussion - especially in NW-Italy (e.g. Monte Beigua). After all Zerynthia cassandra rank is based largely on some genetic distance and on genital morphology which is probably due to an separate glacial refugium. Further research is needed.
The larvae are obviously distinguishable by their body thorns which are not dark at their tips as it is the case in Z. polyxena.