A team of Indian scientists has discovered a new butterfly species named Zographetus mathewi in the Western Ghats of Kerala. This discovery adds to India’s wildlife diversity, emphasizing the significance of studying and protecting this region.
Discovery and Scientific Study
- The butterfly was found by experts from the Travancore Nature History Society, the Institute of Tropical Research, Ecology, and Conservation, and the Zoological Survey of India.
- Initially thought to be a known species, further examination of its wing patterns and genital structures confirmed it as a new species.
- The detailed research on this discovery was published in the journal Entomon.
Naming and Features
- Zographetus mathewi is the 15th species in its genus and the fifth found in India, belonging to the Zographetus satwa group.
- Named in honor of George Mathew, an Indian entomologist, it is also known as the Sahyadri Spotted Flitter.
- The butterfly’s unique features include yellow-ochre hindwings, hairy forewings, and distinctive male traits.
Appearance and Habitat
- Distinctive features like yellow-ochre hindwings and swollen forewing veins in males set Zographetus mathewi apart from similar butterflies.
- It resides in forests below 600 meters in Kerala and feeds on the Aganope thyrsiflora legume vine.
- While adult butterflies are rare to observe, larvae and pupae have been found in areas like Kallar, Shendurney, Edamalayar, and Nilambur.
Importance of the Discovery
- The finding highlights the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats and underscores the importance of conserving these low-elevation forests.
- Scientific observations and field research play a crucial role in discovering new species like Zographetus mathewi.
- Such discoveries aid conservation efforts and raise awareness about protecting rare wildlife species.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- Zographetus mathewi is a newly discovered butterfly species in Kerala’s Western Ghats.
- It belongs to the Zographetus satwa group and is named after Indian entomologist George Mathew.
- The butterfly’s unique features include yellow-ochre hindwings and hairy forewings.
- Discovery of this species highlights the need to conserve the Western Ghats’ biodiversity.
