Moth Biodiversity in Central Kerala: A Comprehensive Examination of Urban and High-Altitude Habitats With New Distribution Record of Palaeosetidae

Abstract

The order Lepidoptera, encompassing both butterflies and moths, many species within lepidoptera plays a pivotal role in ecosystem dynamics as key pollinators. Moths, constituting the vast majority within this order, serve as essential contributors to biodiversity in the Indian subcontinent, with over 12,000 known species. Despite their ecological significance, our understanding of moth diversity in India remains incomplete. This study addresses this knowledge gap by conducting a focused survey of moths in central Kerala between May 2019 and December 2021. Utilizing a standardized methodology involving moth trapping with white cloth and mercury vapor bulbs, we recorded and analyzed 483 moth species spanning 44 families. Notably, this investigation documented the presence of the family Palaeosetidae in Kerala for the first time including two species previously reported only from the Khasi Hills. Additionally, the first-ever sighting of Corgatha semipardata in India and the presence of Cirrhochrista fuscusa in South India were reported. Temporal activity patterns of moths revealed intriguing variations, and a meticulous identification process resulted in classifications at various taxonomic levels. Erebidae emerged as the most speciose family, predominantly in urban areas, while Crambidae, Geometridae, and Noctuidae thrived in high-altitude regions, indicating habitat diversity. Furthermore, this study sheds light on the challenge of identifying moths without specimen collection, particularly for microlepidoptera, which needs further research in this area. The observation of Macroglossum genus caterpillars suggests the possibility of migration, opening avenues for future investigations into moth movement patterns. In conclusion, our research highlights the rich diversity of moths in central Kerala and emphasizes the importance of conserving ecosystems and host plants in urban areas. While providing valuable insights, this study acknowledges its limitations due to a limited duration and calls for extensive research to comprehensively assess moth species richness in the region, offering a crucial foundation for future studies focused on moth diversity.