A Simple, Low-Input Method for Continuous Laboratory Rearing of The Monarch Butterfly (Lepidoptera: Danaidae) for Research

Abstract

Several methods for rearing monarch butterflies, Danaus plexippus (L.), under laboratory conditions have been described previously, but these permit only small numbers of insects to be reared or they involve considerable input of time and labor. A simple procedure has been developed using plants of Asclepias curassavica (L.) that is suitable for the production of small to large quantities of larvae with comparatively little manipulation required to maintain constant culture.