A New Butterfly in India’s Rich Forests
A beautiful new butterfly species has been discovered in India’s Western Ghats. Named Cigaritis conjucta, or the Conjoined Silverline, this butterfly was found in Kodagu, Karnataka. Scientists Krushnamegh Kunte and V. Santhosh Kumar from the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS), along with the Indian Foundation for Butterflies, confirmed this discovery. This rare find adds to India’s long list of unique plants and animals and shows why we must protect nature.
Where Was It Found?
This butterfly was seen in Honey Valley, Kodagu, located in the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary—a forested area in the Western Ghats, a mountain range known for its rich wildlife. Though the butterfly was first noticed in 2008, it was officially named and studied in 2021 after many years of careful observation.
What Makes It Special?
The Conjoined Silverline has a unique feature: the lines on its wings are fused together, unlike other butterflies in the same group. That’s why it got the name “conjucta”, which means joined or connected. It’s a small butterfly with shiny, silver-white lines and attractive wing patterns, making it stand out from others.
Why This Discovery Matters
This is only the second butterfly of its kind that is found only in the Western Ghats. The area is one of the most important wildlife zones in the world and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The discovery shows that there are still many plants and animals in India that we haven’t fully discovered yet. It reminds us of the need to keep exploring and studying nature.
Should We Be Concerned?
Yes, because only around 30 butterflies of this kind have been seen so far. This small number means it could be at risk due to forest loss, pollution, or climate change. Scientists say it’s important to protect the forests where it lives, or we might lose this rare species before we know more about it.
Conclusion: Protecting What We Discover
The Conjoined Silverline is more than just a new butterfly — it is a symbol of the rich natural life hidden in India’s forests. Discoveries like this remind us why we must protect our forests and wildlife. With careful research and support, we can help India’s natural wonders survive for future generations.
Quick Facts at a Glance
- Butterfly Name: Cigaritis conjucta (Conjoined Silverline)
- Found In: Honey Valley, Kodagu (Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary)
- Discovered By: Krushnamegh Kunte & V. Santhosh Kumar (NCBS)
- First Seen: 2008 | Officially described: 2021
- Special Feature: Fused wing lines, not seen in other butterflies
- Count Found: Around 30 butterflies only
- Why It Matters: Found only in Western Ghats; shows need for forest protection
This article contain sources from The Hindu.
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