Tripura achieved a significant milestone in biodiversity documentation with the first-ever recording of the Banded Royal butterfly (Rachana jalindra indra) in the state. This rare species was identified by wildlife officials and researchers, marking an important addition to Tripura’s ecological records.
Location of Discovery
- Site: Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary, Sepahijala District, Tripura
- Date: First sighted on May 5, 2021, during an opportunistic survey.
- Publication: Findings were published in the peer-reviewed international journal Munis Entomology & Zoology.
Significance of the Discovery
- Legal Protection: The butterfly is protected under Schedule II of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
- Biodiversity Highlight: This discovery adds Tripura to the distribution range of the species, which has three subspecies documented in India.
- Previous Studies: Earlier research on Tripura’s butterfly species did not record the presence of Rachana jalindra.
Observational Details
- Initial Observation:
- Date: May 5, 2021
- Method: Opportunistic survey
- Observer: Animesh Das and the research team
- Second Observation:
- Date: May 20, 2021
- Behavior: A Lycaenid butterfly was seen basking on bushes along a forest track.
- Action: A photograph was captured before the butterfly disappeared.
- Confirmation: Identification was later confirmed using taxonomic literature.
Distinct Features of the Banded Royal Butterfly
- Forewing: White underside with a broad chocolate discal band.
- Hindwing:
- Extensive white areas beyond the discal band.
- A wavy line above the tornus, distinct from the tornal markings.
- Prominent green scales on the tornal area of the underside.
Importance of the Discovery
This finding underscores the richness of Tripura’s biodiversity and highlights the need for continued ecological research in the region. It serves as a reminder of the critical role of protected areas like Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary in conserving rare species.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- Where was the Banded Royal butterfly first recorded in Tripura?
- a) Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary
- b) Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary
- c) Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary
- d) Rowa Wildlife Sanctuary
Answer: b) Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary
- Under which schedule of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, is the Banded Royal butterfly protected?
- a) Schedule I
- b) Schedule II
- c) Schedule III
- d) Schedule IV
Answer: b) Schedule II
- What is the scientific name of the Banded Royal butterfly?
- a) Rachana jalindra indra
- b) Lycaena dispar
- c) Papilio demoleus
- d) Danaus chrysippus
Answer: a) Rachana jalindra indra
- What distinct feature is observed on the hindwing of the Banded Royal butterfly?
- a) Broad chocolate discal band
- b) Prominent green scales on the tornal area
- c) Iridescent blue coloration
- d) Black spots near the apex
Answer: b) Prominent green scales on the tornal area
- Which journal published the findings of the Banded Royal butterfly in Tripura?
- a) Nature Ecology & Evolution
- b) Munis Entomology & Zoology
- c) Journal of Wildlife Research
- d) Indian Biodiversity Journal
Answer: b) Munis Entomology & Zoology