Real Common Tiger Butterfly in Acrylic Paperweight

Danaus chrysippus, also known as the plain tiger or African queen, is a medium-sized butterfly widespread in Asia, Australia and Africa. Milkweed contains toxic compounds, cardenolides, which are often consumed and stored by many butterflies. Because of their emetic properties, the plain tiger is unpalatable to most predators. As a result, the species' coloration is widely mimicked by other species of butterflies. The plain tiger is believed to be one of the first butterflies depicted in art. A 3500-year-old Egyptian fresco in Luxor features the oldest known illustration of this species. This specimen is perfectly preserved in clear acrylic resin and contains a real insect or ocean creature. Specimens are imported from suppliers worldwide and are regulated by US Fish and Wildlife and the US Department of Agriculture. Typically, these pieces are used in the classroom to supplement an intriguing lesson plan, but these can also make a dramatic display in your home, as well! Entomology is