New Butterfly Species in Western Ghats has been discovered, further underlining the rich biodiversity of one of the world’s most critical ecological zones. The species, named Zographetus mathewi, is a member of the skipper butterfly family Hesperiidae. This newly identified insect is endemic to the low-elevation forests of Kerala and adds to the growing evidence that the Western Ghats remain a largely untapped reservoir of wildlife.
Discovery and Identification
The butterfly was first spotted during routine fieldwork by a collaborative team from the Travancore Nature History Society, the Institute of Tropical Research, Ecology and Conservation, and the Zoological Survey of India. Initially, it was mistaken for Zographetus ogygia, a known species in the Western Ghats. However, a deeper morphological analysis revealed key differences.
Experts scrutinized the wing venation, scaling patterns, and genital structures of the insect. The findings, published in the peer-reviewed journal Entomon, confirmed that it was a previously undescribed species. This marks a significant addition to the genus Zographetus, which now includes 15 species globally and five in India.
Taxonomy and Naming of the New Butterfly Species
The newly discovered butterfly has been named Zographetus mathewi in honor of George Mathew, a prominent Indian entomologist and former head of the Kerala Forest Research Institute’s Entomology Division. The species’ common name—Sahyadri Spotted Flitter—pays homage to the Western Ghats, known locally as the Sahyadris.
This species is part of the Zographetus satwa group, a subset known for their specialized wing structures and male secondary sexual characteristics. The identification of this butterfly underlines the critical role of classical taxonomy and morphological comparison in biodiversity studies.
Physical Characteristics of New Butterfly Species in Western Ghats
Zographetus mathewi exhibits several unique traits. These include:
- A basal hair tuft located under the forewing.
- Yellow-ochre scales on the underside of the hindwing.
- Unusual genitalia in both male and female specimens.
- Swollen forewing veins in males, a secondary sexual characteristic seen in related species.
Such distinctions, though subtle, were key in separating this butterfly from its close relatives in the genus.
New Butterfly Species: Habitat and Distribution
The butterfly has been found exclusively in Kerala’s low-elevation forests below 600 meters above sea level. Notably, the larvae of Zographetus mathewi feed on Aganope thyrsiflora, a vine belonging to the legume family.
Although adult butterflies have been rarely sighted—only one adult was observed over several years—multiple larvae and pupae were recorded in various forested regions, including:
- Kallar
- Shendurney
- Edamalayar
- Nilambur
These findings suggest a broader, yet highly restricted distribution within Kerala’s forest ecosystems.
Significance of the Discovery of New Butterfly Species
The discovery of Zographetus mathewi is not merely a taxonomic addition—it is a signal that there remains much to learn about the biodiversity in India’s forests, especially in regions like the Western Ghats. This mountain range is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the eight “hottest hotspots” of biodiversity in the world.
The presence of this species reaffirms the ecological value of low-elevation tropical forests, which are often under threat from deforestation, agriculture, and urbanization. The fact that such a butterfly remained undocumented until now highlights the importance of continued fieldwork, detailed scientific observation, and robust ecological research.
Conservation Implications
The discovery also raises urgent conservation questions. As the Western Ghats face increasing human pressures, particularly in the lowland regions, the habitat of endemic species like Zographetus mathewi becomes increasingly vulnerable. Conservationists argue that protecting these microhabitats is essential—not just for the butterflies but for the overall ecological balance and sustainability of the region.
Efforts must include stricter forest protection laws, better monitoring of biodiversity, and awareness campaigns to educate local communities about the ecological treasures around them.
Conclusion
The discovery of Zographetus mathewi—the Sahyadri Spotted Flitter—is a poignant reminder of the Western Ghats’ biological richness and the continuous need for exploration and conservation. As we uncover more such species, the role of India’s natural habitats as global biodiversity reservoirs becomes increasingly evident. Investing in research and protection of these zones is crucial not only for science but also for humanity’s future.
