January 12, 2024
Introduction:
A striking new butterfly species called the Conjoined Silverline, distinguished by its shiny wing patterns, has been identified in Karnataka’s Kodagu district – the first such find in India’s Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot since the 1970s.
Signature Features
The newly discovered butterfly species has been christened the Conjoined Silverline (Cigaritis conjuncta), derived from the distinctive markings on its wings. Specifically, the name refers to the fused spots and bands observed on the undersides of the wings, which are intersected by eye-catching silvery lines running through the middle of these bands.
Chance First Sighting
The insect was first spotted near Iruppu Falls in 2008 but eluded subsequent rediscovery for over a decade.
Then two years ago, researchers photographed dozens of them in the region’s Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary and analyzed samples to confirm a novel species.
Underscoring Rich Biodiversity
- Home to over 500 mammals, 350 birds and 179 amphibians alongside countless vivid insects, the Western Ghats’ unexplored tracts still harbour unknown lifeforms.
- The present revelation after four dry decades again proves the 1600 km mountain chain’s treasures despite extensive documentation attempts.
- It also spotlights forest preservation successes in biodiverse Karnataka where the butterfly thrives.
Need for More Explorations
But experts believe many more species await discovery through meticulous sampling facilitating DNA analysis of variations. They recommend methodical microbial, fungal and invertebrate studies assessing ecosystem impact chains beyond charismatic animals.