Sexing Pupae

This is not something easily done and we do not do do it as a rule, even where possible, as it can be too time consuming. However, for those interested, the image below is an example of how to tell the difference between male and female pupae in one particular species, Danaus plexippus, the Monarch:

At the suspending end of the pupae thee are a number of dark lines. With a reasonable magnifying glass, the areas indicated by the red circle can be made out and a difference established - the female pupa has a line which entirely bisects the two lines, whereas the male pupa has only a dimple.

(Illustration ©Nigel Venters)