NEPTIS PHILYRA: A RARE BUTTERFLY SPECIES DISCOVERED IN INDIA

A rare butterfly species named Neptis philyra, commonly known as long-streak sailor, has been discovered for the first time in India in Tale Valley Wildlife Sanctuary in Lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh. This remarkable species holds significance in the world of entomology.

1. Entomology is the study of insects and their relationship to humans, the environment, and other organisms.

About Neptis Philyra:

1. Description: Neptis philyra, commonly known as the long-striped sailmaker, is a species of serrated-winged butterfly. The upper part of its wings displays a dark brownish-black colour, while the lower part shows a contrasting shade of yellow-brown.
2. Geographic Distribution: Before this discovery in India, Neptis philyra was known to inhabit primarily areas of East Asia, including eastern Siberia, Korea, Japan, and parts of central and south-west China. This new discovery significantly expands its range.
3. Habitat Preferences: This butterfly species, belonging to the Nymphalidae family, tends to favor specific habitats. It prefers evergreen forests, riverine vegetation, and rocky streams, indicating its ecological preferences.

Tale Valley Wildlife Sanctuary:

1. Location: The Tale Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Lower Subansiri District of Arunachal Pradesh.
2. Waterways: Several rivers, including Pange, Sipu, Karing, and Subansiri, flow through this sanctuary, contributing to its diverse ecosystems.
3. Flora: The sanctuary has a magnificent spectrum of subtropical and alpine forests, featuring silver fir trees, ferns, orchids, bamboo, and rhododendrons.
4. Fauna: The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including notable species like the clouded leopard, the Himalayan squirrel, and the Himalayan black bear, enhancing its ecological significance.

Conclusion:

The discovery of Neptis philyra in the Tale Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, India represents an important contribution to the field of entomology. This not only expands the known geographical range of this rare butterfly species, but also highlights the importance of conservation and exploration of India's diverse ecosystems. Ongoing efforts to study and protect these unique species and their habitats are important for maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity.

FAQs:

Q1: What are rhododendrons?

 

1. Rhododendrons are evergreen or deciduous shrubs or small trees with woody stems and broad leaves that are known for their showy clusters of large, brightly colored flowers.
2. In India, rhododendrons are found in the Himalayas from Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh and in the forested mountain tracts of N.E. Indian States.
3. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including red, pink, mauve, yellow, and white.

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