Euthalia zubeengargi Butterfly Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh

Discovery of Euthalia zubeengargi in Arunachal Pradesh

A new butterfly species, Euthalia zubeengargi , has been documented in Arunachal Pradesh, reinforcing the region’s status as a major biodiversity hotspot. The finding highlights the ecological richness of India’s northeastern landscapes, which continue to yield new species due to their varied terrain and climatic diversity.

Taxonomy and Species Characteristics

The species belongs to the genus Euthalia , which is widely distributed across South and Southeast Asia. Butterflies in this group are typically forest-dwelling and exhibit earthy brown wings marked with lighter spots or streaks. Euthalia zubeengargi shows similar traits and is noted for its calm behaviour and short, low-level flight patterns within forested habitats.

Habitat and Behavioural Features

This butterfly inhabits semi-evergreen forests at elevations ranging from 600 to 750 metres. It prefers shaded, cooler microhabitats within dense vegetation and is most active during late morning to early afternoon hours. Like many forest butterflies, it feeds on tree sap and engages in “puddling,” where it extracts minerals from damp soil or stream edges.

Regional Distribution and Biodiversity Significance

The genus Euthalia includes more than 80 species recorded in India’s northeastern region. Arunachal Pradesh, with its diverse ecosystems and relatively unexplored terrain, continues to be a focal point for biological discoveries. Such findings underline the importance of sustained scientific exploration in the region.

Exam-Focused Points

• Euthalia zubeengargi : New butterfly species from Arunachal Pradesh

• Habitat: Semi-evergreen forests (600–750 m altitude)

• Genus Euthalia : Widely found in South & Southeast Asia

• Behaviour: Feeds on sap; shows puddling behaviour

• Role: Butterflies act as bio-indicators of ecosystem health