In an important ecological discovery, butterfly enthusiasts in the Nilgiris have documented the Nilgiri tit (Hypolycaena nilgirica) using a terrestrial orchid, Eulophia epidendraea, as its larval host. This finding, published in The Tropical Lepidoptera, marks a decisive moment for conservation efforts surrounding this rare butterfly, classified under Schedule II of the Wildlife Protection Act. The study, conducted near Kallar horticultural garden, marks the importance of preserving the unique habitats that support endemic species.
Background of the Nilgiri Tit
The Nilgiri tit was first identified in 1884 and has since been a subject of interest for entomologists and conservationists alike. Initially recorded only in the Nilgiris, its range has expanded in recent years, with sightings reported across various locations in the Western Ghats. The butterfly’s preference for specific habitats, primarily humid areas with rocky slopes, puts stress on the delicate balance of its ecosystem.
Ecological Significance of Terrestrial Orchids
Terrestrial orchids, such as Eulophia epidendraea, play important role in their ecosystems. They provide essential resources for various pollinators, including butterflies. The discovery that the Nilgiri tit lays its eggs on the inflorescence of this particular orchid opens new avenues for understanding the interdependence between species and the intricate relationships within their habitats. Orchids are known for their complex reproductive strategies, often relying on specific pollinators that have co-evolved with them.
Historical Observations and Range Expansion
Historical records indicate that the Nilgiri tit was primarily observed in the foothills of the Nilgiris until the late 1980s. Notably, the contributions of researchers like Wynter-Blyth and Larsen have been decisive in documenting the butterfly’s range. Since then, the species has been sighted in various locations, including the Geddai slopes and the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve. This expansion reflects broader ecological changes within the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot.
Conservation Implications
The identification of Eulophia epidendraea as a larval host plant is a game-changer for conservation strategies targeting the Nilgiri tit. About the butterfly’s life cycle and habitat requirements can inform more effective conservation measures. The Wynter-Blyth Association’s involvement puts stress on the collaborative efforts necessary for successful conservation initiatives. This discovery not only aids in the preservation of the Nilgiri tit but also marks the importance of protecting its associated flora and fauna.
Challenges to Habitat Preservation
Despite the promising findings, the Nilgiri tit faces numerous threats, including habitat loss due to urbanisation, agriculture, and climate change. The Western Ghats are under increasing pressure from human activities, which disrupt the delicate ecosystems that sustain species like the Nilgiri tit. Conservation efforts must address these challenges by promoting sustainable land use practices and raising awareness about the importance of biodiversity.
Future Research Directions
The recent study opens the door to further research on the Nilgiri tit and its ecology. Future studies could explore the butterfly’s interactions with other plant species and pollinators, as well as the impact of environmental changes on its population dynamics. Additionally, documenting the genetic diversity of the Nilgiri tit can provide vital information about its adaptability and resilience in changing environments.
UPSC Question:
Analyse the ecological implications of the Nilgiri tit’s dependency on Eulophia epidendraea for its lifecycle.
