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Context

• Biologists reported the discovery of a new butterfly species in the Western Ghats.
• The new member in the family has been named Conjoined Silverline (Cigaritis conjuncta) based on fused spots and bands on the underside of wings, and shiny silver lines in the centre of those bands.

Details

First Sighting:

• The species was initially observed in 2008 within the Brahmgiri wildlife sanctuary.

Decades-long Discovery:

• Remarkably, it stands as the first butterfly species reported from the Western Ghats in the last four decades.

Diminutive Dimensions:

• Despite its small size, comparable to a one-rupee coin, this butterfly holds substantial conservation value.

Exclusive Habitat:

• The species is exclusively found in the mid-elevation evergreen forests of the Western Ghats mountains.

Distinct Locations:

• Two specific sites have been identified where this butterfly species resides, situated at elevations of 900 meters (Iruppu Falls) and 1,300 meters (Honey Valley).

Characteristics of the new species

Activity Patterns:

• The Conjoined Silverline butterflies are active during sunny days, starting early in the morning and continuing until the afternoon.

Resting Habits:

• Both male and female butterflies prefer resting on shrubbery.

Male Resting Positions:

• Certain males choose resting spots elevated nearly 3 meters above the ground.

Sunbathing Behavior:

• Males engage in sunbathing with their wings opened up halfway.
• Females also exhibit similar sunbathing behavior, resembling other Cigaritis species.

Activity Disparities:

• Males tend to be more active in sunny patches.
• Consequently, males are more readily detached compared to females.

Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary:

Location:

• Situated in Kodagu district, Karnataka, Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the Western Ghats.

Ecosystem:

• Encompasses diverse elevations, ranging from 800 to 1,608 meters, including the Brahmagiri Peak.
• Rich in evergreen and semi-evergreen forests with a variety of flora, including medicinal plants.

Fauna:

• Home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, gaur, sambar deer, and numerous bird species.

Brahmagiri Peak:

• Offers panoramic views and is a popular trekking destination.

River:

• Traversed by the Kumaradhara River, enhancing the sanctuary's scenic beauty.

Conservation Status:

• Protected area emphasizing biodiversity conservation.
• Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve - Western Ghats.

Connectivity:

• Shares borders with Nagarahole National Park and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.

PRACTICE QUESTION Question: Which of the following features are associated with Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary? It is part of the Western Ghats mountain range. The sanctuary is known for its evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. Kumaradhara River, enhancing the sanctuary's scenic beauty, flows through the region. The sanctuary shares borders with Nagarhole National Park. Select the correct answer using the code given below: A) 1 and 2 only B) 2 and 3 only C) 1, 3, and 4 only D) 1, 2, 3, and 4 The correct answer is: C) 1, 3, and 4 only Explanation: It is part of the Western Ghats mountain range. This statement is correct. Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Western Ghats in Karnataka. The sanctuary is known for its evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. This statement is not explicitly mentioned in the revised question, but it is generally true. Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its diverse vegetation, including evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. Kumaradhara River, enhancing the sanctuary's scenic beauty, flows through the region. This statement is correct. The Kumaradhara River flows through Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, contributing to its scenic beauty. The sanctuary shares borders with Nagarhole National Park. This statement is correct. Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary shares borders with Nagarhole National Park. Therefore, the correct answer is C) 1, 3, and 4 only. PRACTICE QUESTION Q. "Cigaritis conjuncta" recently made headlines. What is its significance? A) A newly discovered butterfly species in the Western Ghats. B) A medicinal plant identified for its unique properties. C) An initiative for the conservation of Himalayan glaciers. D) A celestial event observed in the southern hemisphere. The correct answer is: A) A newly discovered butterfly species in the Western Ghats. Explanation: "Cigaritis conjuncta" refers to a butterfly species. The question aimed to test your awareness of recent news and your knowledge of biodiversity. In this case, the significance lies in the discovery or recognition of this butterfly species, particularly in the Western Ghats. Monitoring and discovering new species contribute to our understanding of biodiversity and ecosystem health.