In recent news, butterfly observers and researchers have made an exciting discovery in Kannur, Kerala. A rare species, the White Tufted Royal Butterfly, was seen for the first time since it was last spotted in Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary in 2018 and Agasthyakoodam in 2017. Protected under Schedule 2 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, this butterfly’s sighting is a significant event in the field of lepidopterology.
About Butterflies: An Overview
Belonging to the order Lepidoptera of the phylum Arthropoda, butterflies are insects that share their genetic lineage with moths. Adult butterflies often have large wings which are typically bright and colourful. Their flight pattern is marked by a conspicuous fluttering movement. In a recent development, the Golden Birdwing (Troides aeacus), a Himalayan butterfly, has been identified as India’s largest butterfly, marking a historic moment in the study of these insects after 88 years.
The Significance of Butterflies: Indicators of Rich Biodiversity
The presence of butterflies in any given area is an indication of a rich biodiversity. Their abundance not only adds to the visual appeal of the environment but also hypothetically signifies a healthy ecosystem.
The Role of Butterflies as Indicator Species
Butterflies serve a crucial ecological role as an indicator species. They can provide valuable information about the overall state of the ecosystem they inhabit, as well as insights into the status of other species within the same ecosystem. Their presence or absence can indicate the quality of environmental conditions, along with the changes that may be occurring in those conditions, offering crucial cues about alterations in community composition.
The Pollinators: Butterflies and Plant Conservation
Butterflies play a vital role in plant conservation. They act as pollinators, facilitating the reproductive process of various species of plants. By transferring pollen from one plant to another, they ensure the plants’ survival and continuation, thereby conserving numerous plant species.
Butterflies in UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ)
In 2016, an interesting question concerning butterflies was asked in the UPSC Civil Services Examination. The question was – “Recently, for the first time in our country, which of the following States has declared a particular butterfly as State Butterfly?” The options given were Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. The correct answer was Maharashtra.
This question not only highlighted the importance of studying butterflies but also reflected the growing recognition of these insects at the state level. It serves as an example of how even minute details about biodiversity can be crucial in competitive examinations.
With butterfly observation and research gaining momentum in India, it is evident that these vibrant insects are more than just a treat for the eyes. They serve significant ecological roles and their study can reveal much about the health and diversity of our ecosystems.
