Banded Royal Butterfly Discovered in Tripura

The Banded Royal butterfly (Rachana jalindra indra) has recently been discovered in Tripura, marking a significant milestone in the state’s biodiversity documentation. This rare species was spotted for the first time in the Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary, an area rich in flora and fauna. The discovery underscores the importance of ongoing ecological research and wildlife protection in the region. The Banded Royal butterfly, known for its unique appearance, is now officially documented in the peer-reviewed journal Munis Entomology & Zoology.

Key Points

Discovery Context

• Date of discovery: May 5, 2021, during a survey in Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary.
• First recording in Tripura: The butterfly was previously unknown to the state.
• Protected under Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: It is listed under Schedule II of the act, offering legal protection.

Butterfly Characteristics

Appearance

• Males display a deep purple or bluish sheen with dark brown borders.
• Females have a brownish appearance with white markings.
• The underside of the wings is pale brown with distinct white bands, giving it a “banded” look.

Habitat Preference

• Found in dense vegetation.
• Often rests on leaves, making it easier to spot in forested areas.

Habitat and Distribution

• Geographic Range: Found in South and Southeast Asia.
• Known habitats: Western Ghats, Northeast India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, and Malaysia.
• Three subspecies in India: R. j. indra (recorded in Assam, Meghalaya, Jharkhand), macantia (Southwest India), and tarpina (Andamans).

Importance of Biodiversity Research

• Ecological Significance: The discovery adds to the scientific knowledge of Tripura’s biodiversity.
• Conservation: Highlights the need for protecting natural habitats and continued research on species diversity in the region.

Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: 25 kilometers from Agartala, Tripura’s capital.
• Area: 18.53 sq.km, divided into sections for carnivores, primates, ungulates, reptiles, and aviary species.

Key Features

• Home to Clouded Leopard National Park (established in 2007).
• Rich flora with 456 plant species, including bamboo and medicinal plants.
• Revived species: Crab-eating mongoose, last seen in the 1930s.
• Flora: Moist deciduous forest, with bamboo, grasses, and medicinal plants.
• Fauna: Rhesus macaques, Spectacled langurs, leopards, and several wild animals.