Diversity of Butterflies in Maidan Valley, with New Records for Lower Dir District, Pakistan

Diversity of butterfly depends on the availability of food plant and habitat quality. The aims of this study were to assess diversity and flower preference of butterflies in Mount Sago, West Sumatra, Indonesia. Observations were performed by scan sampling method in four types of habitats, i.e. secondary forests, pine forests, rubber forests, and agricultural areas. Our results showed that at least 184 species of butterflies and 56 species of nectar plants have been identified in Mount Sago. Nymphalid butterfly, Neptis hylas, was the most dominant species of butterflies. Two species, i.e. Trogonoptera brookiana and Troides amphrysus, were found as the protected butterflies. Diversity of butterfly in secondary forests was highest, whereas the lowest diversity was found in pine forest. Papilionid butterflies were found frequently feeding on tube blossoms, nymphalid butterflies on head blossoms, and lycaenid butterflies on flag blossom. Our results also showed that habitat change impacts composition and diversity of butterfly.

Butterflies (Lepidoptera: Papilionoidea) of Mount Sago, West Sumatra: Diversity and Flower Preference

Diversity and abundance of butterflies in Sematan area of South-Western Sarawak are studied. In Borneo, 944 different species of butterflies have been documented. In tropical countries, butterflies are essential for monitoring ecological pollination, part of food chain development, temperature change and the degradation of the environment. The study was carried out in order to better understand the presence and variety of butterflies in residential areas at Sematan. The natural vegetation of the area consists of shrubs, herbs, grasses, and tall trees such as Family Malvaceae. Aerial scoop nets were used for the collection in eight residential areas in Sematan. A total of 515 specimens belonging to 63 genera and six families were identified. The family Nymphalidae is the most abundant with 35 genera and 61 species. The family Nymphalidae has the highest Shannon-Wiener Index at 2.63 and the Simpson Diversity Index of 0.92. Nymphalidae are significant in abundance and common species widely distributed in the lower elevation of coastal areas. The occurrence of available adult plant resources and larval host plants contributed to the high diversity of Nymphalidae butterflies. Findings from this study are hoped to contribute to the existing data collection of butterflies especially in Sematan, and for future management and conservation of the native butterflies in Sematan.

This study investigates the diversity and abundance of butterflies in two selected sites, Choolanur (protected area) and Pazhambalakkode (an area close to sanctuary) of Palakkad district of Kerala, India. The study was done only in and around the peafowl sanctuary and Choolanur forest premise and the diversity of butterfly was found to be a little high at Site 1(Choolanur), with Nymphalidae family being most abundant. The number of butterflies from the Papilionidae and Lycaenida family was recorded to be in less numbers as compare to the Nymphalidae. The diversity of butterflies at at Site 2 (Pazhambalakkode) the diversity was almost similar to the diversity of Site 1, which may be due to the immigration of species. The butterflies were sampled by direct search method and photographs were identified with the help of keys and specialists. The species belonging to Nymphalidae family was seen to be high, followed by species of the Lycaenidae family, Pieridae family and the species of the Papilionidae family was recorded to be least. Our results not only confirm the importance of protected sites for protecting biodiversity within a particular area but also highlight their beneficial effects in their surroundings.

Botanic gardens, forest reserves and other protected areas are established to conserve biodiversity. The present study was conducted to assess the butterfly diversity in a recently established botanic garden of Sri Lanka, the Seethawaka Wet Zone Botanic Gardens (SWZBG) and Indikadamukalana Forest Reserve (IMFR) adjacent to the garden. Three different habitat types within the botanic gardens, the undisturbed forest habitat within the forest reserve and the buffer zone between the Botanic Gardens and Forest Reserve were investigated for butterflies. Butterfly species richness, diversity, endemic species, family composition in different habitats and effects of habitat parameters on butterfly distribution were assessed. Butterflies were collected from five habitats – grassland, shrub, disturbed forest, undisturbed forest, buffer zone, of the SWZBG and IMFR using transect line method with hand netting and fruit baited traps. Collected butterflies were identified using published field guides. Climate and soil parameters of each habitat were measured using standard methods and equipment. Differences of habitat parameters between habitats were estimated using One-Way Analysis of Variance and Tukey’s Multiple Comparison method and butterfly diversity and evenness in different habitat types were assessed using Shannon-Weiner diversity index. The study revealed seventy-nine butterfly species from SWZBG and IMFR highlighting the importance of the sites for safeguarding and conservation of butterflies. Species richness and diversity of butterflies was highest in the buffer zone and lowest in the grassland habitat. The most common butterfly family in the study sites was family Nymphalidae. Endemic species were high in the forest habitat types. Significant differences were evident in habitat parameters between habitat types indicating their effect on butterfly species richness and diversity. The study revealed SWZBG and IMFR as important areas for butterfly occurrence when compared with similar botanic gardens and forest reserves elsewhere in the world.

Butterflies are the most fascinating group of insects which belong to the insect order Lepidoptera, under the phylum Arthropoda. In India, 1501 butterfly species, from 5 different families, viz., Papilionidae, Pieridae, Lycaenidae, Nymphalidae and Hesperiidae which include nearly 100 endemic species. The main objective of the present study is to document the butterfly species diversity in Namakkal district and also record how the agroecosystem plays a major role to complete butterflies lifecycle. The Diversity of butterflies in different agricultural field is observed during the period between October 2016 and November 2017. A total of 60 species under 40 genera and 5 families were recorded. During the course of investigation, surveys have been carried out to study the various groups of butterflies with their abundance and distribution and also to assess the preferred host-plants in agricultural lands of surrounding areas in Namakkal district, Tamil Nadu, India.

Sri Lanka possesses a rich diversity of butterflies compared to other countries in the region, but studies on this interesting taxon remain limited. The present study on butterflies at Sinharaja forest was carried out as an effort of filling this gap to some extent. Data was collected from four different habitat types i.e. primary forest, second ary forest, disturbed areas and the Pinus plantation in the North-western sector of the Sinharaja forest close to Kudawa. Two study plots were established in each habitat type, and the butterfly sampling was carried out along four transects (100m × 5m) in each plot; two inside the relevant habitat and other two along the edge of the habitat. Sampling was conducted from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. daily from mid April to end of June 2007. Shannon index (H′) was used to compare the butterfly species diversity. 124 butterfly species belonging to 10 families were recorded including 10 endemic species and 32 nationally threatened species. Rediscovery of the Brown Onyx (Horaga albimacula) after 80 years, and the Banded Redeye (Gangara lebadea subfasciata) and Lesser Gull (Cepora nadina) after 65 years are significant findings of the present study. Results reflect a differ ence in butterfly diversity and abundance between four habitats. 25, 37, 56 and 47 butterfly species were re corded respectively from primary, secondary, disturbed and Pinus forest habitats. The secondary forest was recorded to have the highest species diversity (H′ = 2.169) while primary forest show the least (H′ = 1.917). The primary forest and disturbed area, which had a contrasting difference in the butterfly species richness do not show a significant difference in their butterfly species diversity (H′= 1.917 and H′= 1.920 respectively). Butterflies of family Satyridae and Nymphalidae were the most and second abundant in all habitats, while different species of each family dominated different habitats. Satyrids were more abundant inte rior in forest habitats, while Nymphalids were more common along habitat edges.

The present study was conducted to understand the butterfly diversity in the Sangla Valley of Kinnaur District of Himachal Pradesh, India from April 2015 to March 2018. A total of 40 species of butterflies belonging to 33 genera and five families were recorded from the present study. From the observed butterflies, the family Nymphalidae was the most dominant among the five families with 20 species, followed by Lycaenidae comprising 10 species, Pieridae with 07 species, Papilionidae with 02 species and Hesperiidae with 01species. The butterfly fauna of Sangla Valley has been documented for the first time. The diversity of butterflies is near lower altitudes as compared to alpine regions and Bhoj Patra forests in Cchitkul. Maximum diversity of butterflies exists in open spaces on wild vegetation. One species of Snow Apollo i.e. Parnassius hardwckii has been recorded for the first time from Sangla Valley landscape. The present study added valuable information on the diversity of butterfly fauna and will contribute in developing effective conservation measures in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh.

Butterflies are essential components for well functioning of ecosystems due to their key roles as pollinators and as indicators of ecosystem health. Butterflies are also beloved by public as well as young students and children, who are largely unaware that many species are threatened or endangered. The main objectives of field based education for butterfly conservation were to create knowledge, interest and necessary skills to investigate and, identify the butterfly species and conserve its diversity in school gardens. For butterfly survey the census technique method was taught to the students to investigate the diversity of butterflies during the field trips. During the field trip a total of 34 butterfly species, belonging to 4 families, were recorded with standard literature and colour photographs. The Nymphalidae family was the dominant species found in school gardens. The study concluded that the young students must be given the chance to investigate, engage with and experience nature in order to appreciate and be motivated to conserve and protect these fascinating insects at local level. The conservation of our natural biological resources will be dependent upon future generations. This field based learning program inspired to identify and conserve the butterfly diversity within the school gardens.

Study examines the hypothesis, whether the diversity of Nymphalid butterflies in tropical primary forest of Chandubi is associated with vegetation structure and canopy openness and that this relationship differs between butterfly taxa in relation to phylogenetic differences in light and shade preferences. Study has emphasized whether the increasing diversity of butterflies in degraded tropical forest is associated with the loss of species with restricted geographical distribution. Study considered altogether eight habitat variables and the t-test using equal variance, Spearman rank correlation and multiple regressions were also used for statistical analyses. Species diversity was analyzed using Margalef’s D indices that indicate both the species richness and abundance. Bootstrap method was used to compare the diversity among samples. PCA was done to examine the relationship between vegetation structure and species diversity in primary and degraded forest. The relationship between vegetation factor scores and species diversity in each sampling station in primary and degraded forest was analyzed using stepwise multiple regression. Results indicates that the butterflies species sampled in closed canopy forest had more restricted geographical distribution than those being sampled in disturbed forest. The species with greater light preference had significantly wider geographical distribution, whereas the species with greater shade preferences had significantly narrower geographical range. The stepwise analysis of multiple regressions between the diversity indices of shade groups of butterflies and vegetation density (PRIN 1) of closed forest shows a significant positive relationship, but the relationship was negative when similar analysis was carried out between species diversity indices of light preferred groups and vegetation density. Majority of closed canopy forest butterflies are sensitive to changes in moisture availability and humidity. Thus, changes in canopy cover and light penetration through microclimatic effects on adult and larval survival does have an impact on butterfly distributions and abundance. While the species richness and diversity are higher in degraded forest, the conservation value of primary forest lies more in the presence of species with restricted ranges. Owing to loss of diverse vegetation in degraded forest, the dense canopy cover and transparent ground cover has been reduced and thus leading to decline of forest butterflies species. Study has clearly indicated the strong and significant relationship that exists between the species of narrow range of geographical distribution and species shade preference. The restricted ranges species are affected due to forest degradation. Thus, clearly bringing into light, that increasing diversity in degraded forest is associated with the loss of species with restricted geographical distribution. Key words: Nymphalid butterflies, forest degradation, primary forests, conservation value, endemic species, geographic distribution range, light and shade groups, phylogeny, tropical forests.

Preliminary study was carried out in three different habitat types, Deodar Forest (DF), Mixed forest (MF) and agricultural fields (AF) of Manali town, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh in September and October 2020. A total of 32 species belonging to 4 families and 26 genera were recorded. Species composition was found higher in Agricultural fields (mean 5.47 ± 6.96 SD) followed by Mixed forest type (mean 4.72 ± 8.38) and lowest in Deodar forest type (mean 4.19 ± 11.54). Species diversity of family Nymphalidae and Pieridae were found dominant whereas, abundance of family Lycaenidae was the highest in the study regions. Among all surveyed habitat types, Cluster analysis revealed that highest diversity and abundance of butterflies was supported by Agricultural fields or we can say human dominated landscape which represented the most suitable habitat for butterflies in terms of conservation.

Butterflies (Lepidoptera: Rhopalocera) are ecologically important insects recognized as effective bioindicators due to their sensitivity to climatic fluctuations, habitat disturbance, and vegetation composition. Uttar Pradesh (UP), India’s largest state by population, represents a unique ecological mosaic comprising the Terai belt, Gangetic floodplains, extensive agricultural landscapes, wetlands, scrublands, and semi-arid Bundelkhand habitats. These diverse landscapes provide a broad range of microhabitats and floral resources that support butterfly assemblages. This review synthesizes available literature and ecological observations regarding butterfly diversity and seasonal abundance patterns in Uttar Pradesh and comparable North Indian regions. Evidence suggests that butterfly diversity in UP is strongly influenced by habitat heterogeneity, larval host plant distribution, nectar plant phenology, and climatic variables such as rainfall, humidity, and temperature. Post-monsoon and spring seasons generally exhibit maximum species richness and abundance due to favorable environmental conditions and high floral productivity. In contrast, extreme summer heat reduces butterfly activity and survival, while heavy monsoon rainfall can suppress adult flight behavior temporarily. Studies across northern India indicate that families Nymphalidae and Lycaenidae typically dominate species richness, while Pieridae frequently show high abundance in open habitats and agroecosystems. Rapid urbanization, agricultural intensification, pesticide usage, wetland degradation, and habitat fragmentation are major threats to butterfly populations in UP. The review emphasises the importance of standardized monitoring approaches such as Pollard walk transects, long-term phenological recording, and integration of citizen science platforms. Conservation strategies including habitat restoration, creation of butterfly corridors, promotion of butterfly-friendly farming, riparian vegetation protection, and urban biodiversity planning are recommended. This review provides an updated conceptual framework for future research and conservation planning aimed at safeguarding butterfly diversity and ecological stability in Uttar Pradesh.

A study on butterfly diversity of lateritic biotopes of Kavvayi River Basin was conducted during February 2013 to January 2015. The study area represents diverse habitats that include sacred groves, laterite hills, riparian ecosystem, and kanams. A total of 140 species butterflies were recorded from the study area, among which the highest number of butterfly species were from the family Nymphalidae (48 species), followed by Hesperiidae (32 species), Lycaenidae (27 species), Papilionidae and Pieridae with 16 species each and 1 from the family Riodinidae. The present study revealed the faunal richness of the unique ecosystems and microhabitats in lateritic biotopes in terms of butterfly diversity. The study also highlights conservation significance of the area which is under severe human pressure including mining, habitat fragmentation and change in the land-use system.

BackgroundThe present study deals with the butterfly diversity in Soraipung Range of Dehing Patkai National Park. The site was chosen on the basis that it lies in between Eastern Himalaya and Indo-Burma which is acclaimed as global biodiversity hotspot.ResultsA total of 92 butterfly species belonging to 5 families were recorded during the study of which 13 species were listed as protected under various schedules of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and 11 species were restricted to the Eastern Himalaya, India. Members of the Nymphalidae family were found to be dominant with (41) number of species followed by Papilionidae (17), Lycaenidae (16), Hesperiidae (10) and the least Pieridae (8). The maximum diversity is obtained in Nymphalidae family: where Shannon–Wiener Diversity Index (H′) is 3.604584 and Evenness (E) is 0.970651 while the minimum diversity is in Pieridae family where Shannon–Wiener Diversity Index (H′) is 1.936217 and Evenness (E) is 0.970651.ConclusionsThe study reveals that Soraipung range is rich in butterfly diversity but on the contrary their study is poorly documented. During the survey 13 threatened species and 11 species restricted to the Eastern Himalaya have been also documented in the National Park, thus making it an important butterfly habitat in the state. Therefore, its necessary to conduct more study as well as research on the butterflies in Dehing Patkai National Park for effective conservation and management programs.

This study thoroughly examines butterfly diversity in the Panti Forest Eco-Park, Johor, Malaysia. Data collected from November 2017 to July 2018 involved the use of aerial nets and baited traps along a 1 km transect, resulting in 207 individuals of 75 species. The Nymphalidae family was most prevalent, representing 152 individuals across 49 species. The rank abundance curve highlighted Iambrix stellifer and Lexias pardalis dirteana as the most abundant species. Notably, 37 species were solitary occurrences, making up 49.3% of the entire sample. Several singleton species were identified, including Dichorragia nesimachus deiokes (Nymphalidae), Danaus melanippus hegesippus (Nymphalidae), Gandaca harina distanti (Pieridae), and Eooxylides tharis distanti (Lycaenidae). The calculated Hʹ Index of 4.004 and EH value of 0.9218 indicate high butterfly diversity, positioning the Panti Forest Eco-Park as one of Johor's most diverse locations. Variations in dominant families compared to earlier works may be due to sampling methods. Additionally, the attraction of Lexias pardalis dirteana to baited traps emphasizes the importance of methodological considerations in butterfly diversity assessments. Furthermore, compared to prior research, a lower species count was observed, attributed to the exclusion of the bunker trail as a sampling site.