Banded Royal Butterfly Discovered in Tripura

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Tripura has achieved milestone in biodiversity documentation with the discovery of the Banded Royal butterfly (Rachana jalindra indra). This rare species was recorded for the first time in the state, specifically within the Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary. Wildlife officials announced this finding, which has been documented in the peer-reviewed journal Munis Entomology & Zoology. The discovery puts stress on the importance of ongoing ecological research in the region.

Discovery Context

The Banded Royal butterfly was first sighted on May 5, 2021, during an opportunistic survey in Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary. The species is protected under Schedule II of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

Butterfly Characteristics

The Banded Royal butterfly has distinct features:Its upper side displays a deep purple or bluish sheen in males, while females exhibit a more brownish appearance with white markings.
The underside is pale brown with notable white bands, contributing to its “banded” name.
The butterfly prefers dense vegetation and is often found resting on leaves.

Habitat and Distribution

This butterfly species is found in forests across parts of South and Southeast Asia. Its known habitats include the Western Ghats, Northeast India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, and Malaysia. The Banded Royal has three subspecies in India, with R. j. indra being recorded in Assam, Meghalaya, and Jharkhand.

Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary Overview

Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary is located approximately 25 kilometres from Agartala, Tripura’s capital. The sanctuary covers around 18.53 square kilometres and is divided into five sections, including carnivore, primate, ungulate, reptile, and aviary sections. It is also home to Clouded Leopard National Park, established in 2007.

Flora and Fauna

The sanctuary boasts a rich diversity of flora, with at least 456 plant species, including various bamboos and medicinal plants. The fauna includes several primate species such as Rhesus macaques and Spectacled langurs, along with wild animals like leopards and deer. Remarkably, the crab-eating mongoose, last seen in the 1930s, has been revived in this sanctuary.

Importance of Biodiversity Research

The discovery of the Banded Royal butterfly marks the richness of Tripura’s biodiversity. It emphasises the need for continued ecological research to uncover and protect the region’s unique species. This finding not only adds to the scientific knowledge of the area but also reinforces the significance of conserving natural habitats.

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