Sikkim’s Dzongu

A decade-long study brought into light the Dzongu region of Sikkim as a premier butterfly habitat. This research coincided with Sikkim’s 50th anniversary as a state. The study was conducted by Sonam Wangchuk Lepcha, a local citizen scientist, and zoologist Monish Kumar Thapa. They documented 420 butterfly species in Dzongu, representing 60.95% of Sikkim’s known species. This finding puts stress on Dzongu’s ecological importance.

Geographical Context

The Dzongu region spans approximately 78 square kilometres. It is situated at elevations between 700 to 6,000 metres above sea level. The area borders the Khangchendzonga National Park and is part of the Indo-Myanmar Biodiversity Hotspot. This unique geography supports diverse ecosystems.

Butterfly Diversity

The study identified 420 butterfly species, with Nymphalidae being the most prevalent family. This family accounted for 165 species across 68 genera. Other notable families included Lycaenidae with 92 species, Hesperiidae with 84 species, and Papilionidae with 38 species. The findings highlight the rich biodiversity in Dzongu.

Conservation Status

Among the recorded species, 118 are protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 2022. Most of these species are classified as Schedule II insects, indicating a high level of protection. This legal framework is crucial for preserving butterfly populations in the region.

Rare Species Documented

The study documented several rare butterfly species. Notable examples include Papilio krishna, Teinopalpus imperialis, and Meandrusa lachinus. The Bassarona durga is recognised as Sikkim’s state butterfly. The Zographetus dzonguensis is also a new species to science, showcasing the ongoing discovery in the region.

Ecological Significance

Butterflies serve as indicators of biodiversity. Their sensitivity to environmental changes makes them valuable for assessing ecosystem health. The study found that sub-tropical hill forests had the highest diversity, with 395 species recorded. In contrast, sub-alpine forests supported only 13 species.

Community Involvement

The research involved local guides and members of the Butterfly Society of Sikkim. Their knowledge and support were instrumental in the decade-long study. This collaboration marks the importance of community engagement in conservation efforts.

Future Implications

The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of biodiversity in Sikkim. They emphasise the need for ongoing conservation efforts. Protecting butterfly habitats can enhance ecological stability and promote tourism in the region.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the role of citizen scientists in biodiversity conservation.
2. Estimate the impact of legal frameworks on the protection of endangered butterfly species in India.
3. Point out the geographical factors that contribute to the biodiversity of the Indo-Myanmar Biodiversity Hotspot.
4. What are the ecological implications of butterfly population changes in response to habitat loss? Explain.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the role of citizen scientists in biodiversity conservation.

1. Citizen scientists like Sonam Wangchuk Lepcha contribute local knowledge and skills to scientific research.
2. They enhance public engagement and awareness about biodiversity and conservation issues.
3. Collaboration with professional scientists leads to valuable data collection and findings.
4. Citizen science can fill gaps in research, especially in remote or under-studied areas.
5. Empowering communities encourages stewardship and a sense of responsibility towards local ecosystems.

2. Estimate the impact of legal frameworks on the protection of endangered butterfly species in India.

1. Legal frameworks like the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 2022, provide a structured approach to species conservation.
2. They classify species based on their conservation status, helping prioritize protection efforts.
3. Legal protections raise awareness and can lead to increased funding for conservation initiatives.
4. Enforcement of laws helps mitigate threats such as habitat loss and illegal collection.
5. However, effective implementation and monitoring are crucial for these frameworks to be successful.

3. Point out the geographical factors that contribute to the biodiversity of the Indo-Myanmar Biodiversity Hotspot.

1. The region’s varied elevation (700m to 6,000m) creates diverse microhabitats and climate conditions.
2. Proximity to the Khangchendzonga National Park enhances ecological connectivity and species richness.
3. Rich forest ecosystems, including sub-tropical and sub-alpine forests, support a wide range of species.
4. Geographical isolation of some areas leads to unique species adaptations and endemism.
5. The Indo-Myanmar region’s climatic variability contributes to high biodiversity levels.

4. What are the ecological implications of butterfly population changes in response to habitat loss? Explain.

1. Butterflies are indicators of ecosystem health; their decline suggests broader environmental issues.
2. Population changes can disrupt pollination processes, affecting plant reproduction and food webs.
3. Loss of butterfly diversity may lead to reduced genetic diversity within ecosystems.
4. Changes in butterfly populations can indicate habitat degradation and loss of other species.
5. Monitoring butterfly populations can inform conservation strategies and habitat management efforts.