Cigaritis conjuncta

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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.