Delias patrua

Delias patrua is a pierid in the belladonna group. The nominate population, shan and laotiana are geographically named subspecies. [1][2][5]

Laotiana has a darker ground and reduced grey and white markings on both surfaces. Its ventral hindwing has a narrower central-cell streak, smaller yellow discal streaks and thinner yellow spots near the margin than other patrua subspecies. [5]

The species occurs in central and southern China, northern and eastern Myanmar, northern Thailand and Laos. [2]

Laotiana inhabits montane forest above 2,000 metres around Phou Samsoum in eastern Laos. [5]

A male was photographed taking minerals at Phou Samsoum in May 2023. [5]

Seven of the 26 male laotiana paratypes bore an additional diffuse white spot on the hindwing underside. [5]

Leech described patrua in 1890 from Chang Yang, Hubei; Talbot named shan in 1937 from Myanmar’s Shan States. [2][5]

Davenport, Grimaldi and Pequin described laotiana from eastern Laos in 2026. [5]

The illustrations preserve the observed wing outlines and pale markings of the depicted geographic form.

Keep the enclosure away from direct sunlight, dampness and large changes in temperature or humidity. Handle the frame, clean only its exterior, and inspect for loose fragments, moisture and pests. Retain the specimen’s original labels and follow the enclosure maker’s care instructions. [4]