Bengaluru, 15 January 2024: Scientists from the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS- TIFR), Bengaluru, in collaboration with researchers from Indian Foundation for Butterflies Trust, Bengaluru, have identified a new butterfly species, the Conjoined Silverline (Cigaritis conjucta), from the Western Ghats (a biodiversity hotspot) in Karnataka. Prof. Krushnamegh Kunte, along with PhD scholars Ujwala Pawar and Viraj Nawge from NCBS, contributed to this discovery, recently documented in the journal Zootaxa.
In 2021, the team identified over 30 individuals of Conjoined Silverline butterfly at Honey Valley, in the Kodagu district of Karnataka. Silverline butterflies belong to the family Lycaenidae, with 16 species occurring in India. Peninsular India and Sri Lanka host 11 of these species. Most species of Silverline butterflies are widespread in India and some occur only in the Himalayan region. In contrast, the newly described Conjoined Silverline is only the second species endemic to the Western Ghats. Within its currently known range, it appears to inhabit only the dense mid-elevation evergreen forests, so it may be very specialized in its habitat requirements.
The newly discovered and described species, Conjoined Silverline (Cigaritis conjucta), from the Western Ghats. Image courtesy: Rohit Girotra
The name "Conjoined Silverline" was coined as the species exhibits fused bands, a unique characteristic located on the underside of the wings, distinguishing it from other Silverline species. “I first encountered and photographed this butterfly in 2008 during a field trip to Iruppu Falls in Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, but at that time lacked the necessary research permits for an in-depth study”, says Prof. Kunte. In 2021, prompted by additional sightings, his group initiated a thorough investigation, leading to the unveiling of this new species.
“It’s a matter of pride that a rare species of butterfly ‘Conjoined Silverline’ has been found and discovered at Bramhagiri Wildlife Sanctuary in Kodagu district, Karnataka. I hope more such research should take place in the state. Hearty congratulations to the young scientists who have studied this Silverline butterfly and all those who have supported it” said Shri Eshwar B. Khandre, Honorable Minister of forest, ecology and environment, Government of Karnataka.
Tinier than the size of a one-rupee coin, the Conjoined Silverline bears a strong resemblance to other Silverline butterflies from a distance. However, closer examination reveals distinct wing patterns that set it apart. The image below illustrates the unique traits in its wing patterns.
"Given the extensive study and documentation of butterfly species especially in the Western Ghats, the identification of a new species is an exceptionally rare and exciting occurrence," informs Prof. Kunte. The discovery within the Western Ghats underscores the region's status as a treasure trove of endemic species and showcases its remarkable biodiversity.
KUNTE, K., SENGUPTA, A., PAWAR, U., & NAWGE, V. (2024). A new species of silverline butterfly, Cigaritis Donzel, 1847 (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae), from the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot, India. Zootaxa, 5399(1), 85–95. https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5399.1.7
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