A butterfly survey concluded at Ledum area in Arunachal Pradesh’s East Siang district on Saturday reported the sighting of 133 species, including six rare species.
The three-day survey was organised by State Foundation for Biodiversity Conservation in collaboration with the state forest and tourism departments.
The survey was conducted during the third edition of Butterfly & Biodiversity Meet from October 8 to 12.
The rare species spotted by the team are saffron (Mota massyla), yellow viened lancer (Pyroneura margherita), scarce red forester (Letha distans butler), Indian awlking, white dragontail and jungle glory.
Researchers say that butterflies have vital role in pollination, and have biotic factor on the environment.
They are very sensitive to natural phenomenon, like climate change and ecological disaster.
“It is every individual’s duty to preserve nature. Butterflies and birds are sensitive indicators of climate change,” said entomologist Joram Khopey.
The team also conducted other feature activities like bird-watching, conservation activities, nature trail hikes, and nature photography during the three-day programme.
Ledum village located at 30 km west from Pasighat town is a foothill area with numerous streams evergreen forest.
The forest and water bodies of the area provide a perfect habitat of wild animals, reptiles and the winged species.
The organizers, who conducted second edition of the Butterfly Meet at Pasighat during November last year, recorded 130 butterfly species in the foothill areas near Pasighat century-old town recently.
Siang valley adjacent to Dihang-Dibang Biosphere Reserve provides perfect habitats for butterflies attracting attention of Entomologists and forest researchers of the country.
The valley is a suitable habitat for varieties of butterflies.
The natural flora, endowed with evergreen forests and angiosperms and perennial streams supports comfortable survival and natural breeding of the winged species.
According to the Itanagar-based State Forest Research Institute (SFRI) report, the hilly state so far has recorded more than 450 species of butterflies in the DDBR.
One of the rarest species – Bhagadatta (Austenia Purpurascens) – discovered by Bombay Natural History Society in 1915 near then Abor Hills in East Siang district, was rediscovered at Molo area of the DDBR during 2009 after long 95 years.
